Volkswagen Repair: brake pad replacement, vw passat, handbrake cable

Question
1999 VW Passat 4 cylinder engine---how do I get the rear brake pads off to install new ones? I took out two bolts but wasn't able to open the caliper far enough to remove the caliper from the rotor. there are only two other bolts and I was not sure whether they needed to be removed or not. Can you give me some advice on the proper sequence of operations to remove the old pads and install new ones? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Wayne,

You'll need to remove the handbrake cable from the lever and pull it out of the bracket after you've removed the clip. then pull the caliper away, from the bottom first.
Pry it out if you need to, it should slide out and up.
You'll need to push the piston back into the caliper while turning the piston clockwise as you push it back, careful not to damage the dust boot.
If you're going to change the rotors, which I would recommend, you will need to remove the two allenhead bolts as well, and remove the bracket.  File the part of the bracket smooth where the pads make contact, and apply antiseize to the sliding surface. Also remove the pins that are held in with the accordian boots, then clean and lube the pins.
When you assemble the brake assembly, and are ready to connect the handbrake cable, pull down the lever with a large plier to connect the cable (try to do it on the first try, as the adjuster will move less with each try, since the piston will move towards the pads.

Good Luck,

Paul