Brake trouble

[jkoshuta]

Wow, so I thought I knew cars...simple brake pad swap right? Wrong! The front went well, however the rear brakes have beaten me! I cleared the "special tool" hurdle, but I couldn't get the calipers to screw in. Just endless tuning, no progress..has anyone else encountered this? any advise?

[TSR53]

The rear brake piston compression tool needs to both rotate AND push the piston in. Make sure you have the brake master cylinder cap off and rag around this. If you need to help the caliper go in, relieve any pressure with the cap off or back out the bleeder screw. You can also swap out your stock bleeder screws with special brake "Speed Bleeder" units and or use a Movit "Power Bleeder" attached to the master cylinder. Remember, two years is recommended duration for flushing out brake fluid. Sooner if you track your MINI and either before or right after each event if you REALLY track it hard. I would only use MINI approved brake fluid for normal street use or ATE type 200 Gold or ATE Super Blue. The brake system on the MINI is manufactured by ATE. Very important to use proper fluid as other brands might affect the seals.

See this for complete instructions >>
www_northamericanmotoring_com/forums/showthread.php?p=550345

HTH, Thompson

[jkoshuta]

I'll know for next time, and avoid my current crisis...I had it towed due to time constraints with out brakes to a dealer. I explained the situation and things were fine till the driver sliped up and tried to use the brakes while unloading the car! Now I'm in a legal mess with the tow company because that destroyed my rotors and piston seals!

Live and learn i guess...