Removing calipers

[steve_wilwerding]

I want to paint my calipers, and to do a thorough job, I want to remove the calipers from the car. Three questions - first, what is the best place to disconnect the brake line from the caliper? Second, I assume that once you disconnect the brake line, all the fluid in the reservoir will drain out? Third, assuming two is correct, is a Power Bleeder sufficient to purge the air out of the lines once the calipers have been reinstalled?

[steve_wilwerding]

Bump - anyone?

[Orient Express]

Steve:

For your 2 questions,

1. where do you remove the brake line from the caliper.

answer: there is only one place to remove the brake line, which is at the caliper. Simply loosen the nut on the brake line and pull it off.

2. Will all of the brake fluid come out?

answer: No, some may drip out, but as long as you do not press on the brake pedal, fluid loss from the open line will not result in loss because the line is still sealed at the master cylinder and the ABS manifold. There are little screw on dust caps that you can put on the open ends that will further prevent dripping.

3. do I need a power bleeder?

Answer: A bleeder that uses compressed air on the supply reservoir or one that uses suction on the caliper end will purge the installation just fine.

Lastly if you reuse the caliper mounting bolts instead of getting new ones, be sure to put a drop of Loctite on them and torque them to 72 ft LBS.

FYI, there is a 95% chance that if you DIY paint your calipers they will look like just that. Consider having them professionally powder coated or get OEM calipers of the right color, clean up your old ones, and sell them on eBay.