Ford Repair: Bleeding Brakes on a 1989 Ford T-Bird SC, disc brake pads, brake pads and rotors

Question
QUESTION: This car has been sitting for a while but I am trying to replace the rear disc brake pads and rotors. I am having a problem with compressing the calipers to enable me to install the new pads. I want as for as putting pressure on the caliper and removing the bleeder screw and still very little fluid but no movement in the caliper. Is there some kind of valve that is built in there somewhere?

ANSWER: Jerry-

  Fear not...this is probably the most common question I get and it's an easy one to answer.  The rear brakes aren't like the front where you can just push the piston back into the caliper.  No, that would be too easy.  On the rears you need to screw them back in.  There's a ratchet attachment you can get at most any parts store that'll do the job that costs less than $10 (if memory serves).  Sometimes you can get it back in with basic hand tools if you're creative enough (though I have yet to find a universal way to do this).  It's just easier to use the special part from the store.  Hope this helps.

Steve

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

QUESTION: Steve, Thanks for the response but I have a follow up question for you... I tried to "screw" the piston back in by just turning it but it just spins. It may need pressure applied at the same time as I am screwing it in. The big question is - spinning the piston back in, does this also adjust the rear brakes? I read this on a "ford specialty tool" web site. Thanks again for your help. Jerry

Answer
Jerry-

  To be perfectly honest, I really don't know if it adjusts the brakes or not.  Braking systems were never really my area of expertise and I haven't kept as current as I probably should have on the specifics of Ford's systems.  And yes, you will probably need to apply a bit of pressure while turning the piston back in.  Nothing too major, just something to help it along.  Hope this helps.

Steve