Chevrolet Repair: 2005 Malibu rear breaks, caliper piston, piston face

Question
QUESTION: I have the right rear break apart but acn't get the calliper to retract.  I made a little tool push on the piston face with a screw but it will not go.  I have done front discs many time with no trouble. Is it to do with the emergency break?  Would it have racheted in to compensate for wear and need to be backed out somehow?

ANSWER: Hi

 GM uses two styles of rear brake calipers.  If the emergency brake cable goes to the caliper itself the piston needs to be rotated while you are pushing it back into the bore.  If the cable goes behind the rotor to a set of shoes you can just push it back.
 It wouldnt be unconceivable that you have a seized caliper though as we have replaced quite a few in the last few months.  You should always remove the bleeder so fluid is pumped out and not up through the EBCM.  Contaminated fluid can cause problems with the valves and solenoids inthe EBCM.

Wayne



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks
I have the crank arm on the back of the caliper.  Where do I grip it to rotate and does it have to be simultaneous with the push?

Answer
Hi,

 There are little recesses in the caliper piston that is tool is designed ot fit into so you can push and turn at the same time.  A universal square 3/8 drive tool is available at most parts stores to do this and they are cheap.  I would suggest getting one to make it so much easier.

Wayne