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MG MGA - Replacing disc brake pads

How do I push the pistons back, to fit the new pads in? I have tried levering with a screw driver, but they don't want to move. I don't want to do damage.This is on a 1600 MGA.
Thanks, Graeme
Graeme Fisher

Graeme,
I use a small G-Clamp from my woodworking kit, it works just fine.

Alternatively, you can remove just one pad and push the exposed piston back by levering gently against the disc using a small pry-bar. The old pad you have left in place will support the disc against the caliper.

Then repeat for the other pad.

(I prefer the G-Clamp method though)

Colyn
Colyn Firth

Graeme I use a large screwdriver on the centre of the disc to move them just a bit, then insert a thin piece of timber and lever off that and the disc as close to the axle as possible. Place the new pad on that side then do the other.

I usually finish with a small g-clamp as Colyn suggests.
Barry.
Barry Gannon

I use a screwdriver but was at the classic restoration show in Birmingham yesterday and was tempted to buy one of these
https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/302441173908?chn=ps&dispItem=1&adgroupid=47842945425&rlsatarget=pla-380312371811&abcId=1129946&adtype=pla&merchantid=114883866&poi=&googleloc=9046081&device=c&campaignid=974959912&crdt=0

Not expensive and the ones I saw looked well made

Graham
Graham V

Thanks for the ideas. I don’t have a small enough clamp, but Barry’s method did the trick.
Graeme
Graeme Fisher

A modified G clamp makes it easy.
Mike


Mike Ellsmore

Large pair of channel lock pliers.

Jim
JL Cheatham

Does nobody have the correct MG tool?
It is shown in the Workshop Manual.
Back in 1964 I purchased various tools from the Churchill Tool Company that made most MG tools.
I only had the one for the Dunlop disc brakes on my Twin Cam, but long since lost in numerous house moves in several States.

Mick


M F Anderson

Well, I usually use fingers and thumbs.
On some cars it might help if the bleed nipple is opened a little.

Anything more than a little leverage , eg "they don't want to move" suggests investigation and at least cleaning is necessary.
J N Gibson

This thread was discussed between 24/03/2018 and 25/03/2018

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This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGA BBS is active now.