Replacing front pads

[iDemonix]

As with most things, the simple things are the hardest on my NC30.

New pads arrived. Removed pad cap. Removed retaining pin + 'spring' and removed old pads. The old pads combined are about 11mm, the new pads combined are about 15mm. I can not get the new pads in for love nor money. I've removed the reservoir cap + diaphragm to take some pressure away but I just can't get the pistons in no matter how hard I push. I tried with some leverage but I don't want to lever against the disc incase I warp it.

Does this mean I need to remove and service the calipers i.e. new seals? I'm hoping not because this was a fucking nightmare job on the rear caliper and there's two of the fuckers at the front. Also going to University on saturday morning meaning bike is garaged for 3-4 months, want to get it done today but can't figure out how to get these pistons pushed in!

Soldering on + trying to remain calm,

Dan

[iDemonix]

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbvi ... -grips.jpg

Using a pair of the above I managed to squeeze the pistons back in, I had a problem where squeezing one piston pushed the other 3 out a bit, but a friend recommended putting an old pad in and squeezing that instead, worked a treat! About to go test them, if I don't come back, I've died from failing brakes :D

[Neosophist]

Put a large ring-spanner inbetween the old pads and lever it back and forth, it will push the pistons in.

If you try to lever the pistons directly you need to be perfectly square with them otherwise you'll be pushing them at an angle and they wont' go in.

Overhauling the front calipers is a doddle if you have the right tools and i'd reccomend it if you have sticking pistons, tatty looking pistons or poor brake performance even after changing pads

[CMSMJ1]

they'll just stick again and might even bind on your discs with the new pads constantly rubbing them.

[iDemonix]

Cheers for the advice lads, I just needed the pads in as tomorrow I'm going to Donington for a trackday (to spectate) so need good brakes! After that the bike is garaged until I get back from Uni around December 17th, so once I get back it's having a full service including front caliper overhaul, valve clearances and carb balancing!