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For 1990-2009 cars only

Front Brake Caliper Overhaul CSV HSV VXR8

Disassembly Procedure

    Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Caution in the Preface section.

    Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in the Preface section.

    Caution: Refer to Brake Dust Caution in the Preface section.

    Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in the Preface section.

    Important: 

       • Replace all the components included in the repair kit used to service the brake caliper.
       • Lubricate the rubber parts with brake fluid conforming to specification to make assembly easier. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
       • If any hydraulic component is removed or disconnected, it may be necessary to bleed all or part of the brake system.
       • The torque values specified are for dry, non-lubricated fasteners.
       • Perform the service operations on a clean bench, free from all mineral oil materials.

  1. Remove the brake pads, brake pad retaining pins and anti-rattle clip. Refer to Front Disc Brake Pads Replacement.
  2. Remove the brake caliper from the vehicle. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement.
  3. Drain the brake fluid from the brake caliper.

  4. Object Number: 1943479  Size: SH
  5. Using a suitable vice, securely position the brake caliper (1) in a way that permits full access to the working area of the brake caliper pistons (2).

  6. Object Number: 1943482  Size: SH

    Caution: Do not place fingers in front of the caliper piston(s) in an attempt to catch or protect it when applying compressed air. The piston(s) can fly out with force and could result in serious bodily injury.

    Notice: Use clean cloths to pad interior of caliper housing during piston removal. Use just enough air to ease the pistons out of the bores. If the pistons are blown out, even with the padding provided, it may be damaged.

    Important: Observe the pistons coming out of the bores. If one of the pistons appears to be seized, STOP applying air pressure.

  7. Expel the brake caliper pistons (1) from the brake caliper (2) by directing low pressure compressed air into the brake fluid inlet hole (3).
  8. If one of the pistons appears to be seized, perform the following steps:

    5.1. Evenly push the seized piston back into the bore using a suitable block of nylon or wood.
    5.2. Repeat Step 5 until all brake caliper pistons have been expelled from the brake caliper.

    Object Number: 1943484  Size: SH

    Important: Use a small wooden or plastic tool to avoid damage to the brake caliper (2) when removing the brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1).

    Important: Brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1) are single use components only and must be discarded after removal.

  9. With the brake caliper pistons removed, remove all the brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1) from the brake caliper (2).
  10. Discard the brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1).


    Object Number: 1943487  Size: SH

    Important: Use a small wooden or plastic tool to avoid damage to the brake caliper piston bores (2) when removing the brake caliper piston seals (1).

    Important: Brake caliper piston seals (1) are single use components only and must be discarded after removal.

  11. Remove all 4 brake caliper piston seals (1) from the grooves in the brake caliper piston bores (2) and discard.
  12. Discard the brake caliper piston seals (1).

  13. Remove the brake caliper bleeder valves (3).
  14. Clean the brake caliper piston bores (2) with denatured alcohol, or equivalent.
  15. Important: DO NOT use abrasives to clean the brake caliper piston.

  16. Clean the brake caliper pistons with denatured alcohol or equivalent.
  17. Clean the brake caliper bleeder valves (3) with denatured alcohol or equivalent.
  18. Dry the brake caliper piston bores with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  19. Dry the brake caliper pistons with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  20. Dry the brake caliper bleeder valves (3) with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  21. Inspect the brake caliper piston bores (2) for cracks, scoring, pitting or excessive corrosion.
  22. • If light corrosion is present in the brake caliper bores, attempt to remove the imperfection with a fine emery paper. If the imperfection cannot be removed, replace the brake caliper assembly.
    • If cracks, scoring, pitting or corrosion are present in the piston bores, replace the brake caliper assembly.
  23. Inspect the brake caliper pistons for cracks, scoring and/or damage.
  24. If cracks, scoring or damage are present on the brake caliper pistons, they must be replaced.

Assembly Procedure

    Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1943487  Size: SH

    Important: 

       • Replace all the components included in the repair kit used to service the brake caliper.
       • Lubricate the rubber parts with brake fluid conforming to specification to make assembly easier. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
       • If any hydraulic component is removed or disconnected, it may be necessary to bleed all or part of the brake system.
       • The torque values specified are for dry, non-lubricated fasteners.
       • Perform the service operations on a clean bench, free from all mineral oil materials.

  1. Install the brake caliper bleeder valves (3).
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the valves to 17 Nm (97 lb in).

  3. Lubricate the NEW brake caliper piston seals with brake fluid conforming to specification, from a clean, sealed brake fluid container. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
  4. Important: When installing, make sure the brake caliper piston seals (1) are not twisted.

  5. Install the brake caliper piston seals (1) into the grooves in the brake caliper piston bores (2).

  6. Object Number: 1943489  Size: SH
  7. Lubricate all the brake caliper piston bores (2) with brake fluid conforming to specification. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
  8. Lubricate and install all the brake caliper pistons (1) into the brake caliper piston bores (2).

  9. Object Number: 1943490  Size: SH
  10. Install the NEW brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1) over the brake caliper pistons (2).
  11. Complete the following for all brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1).
  12. 7.1. Fully seat the brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1) into the brake caliper (2).
    7.2. Make sure the brake caliper piston dust boot seals (1) are correctly seated into the groove in the brake caliper piston bores (3).

    Important: The brake pads are marked as inner and outer only. Failure to install the brake pads in their correct position will cause the brakes not to seat correctly in the brake caliper.

    Important: The anti-rattle clip can only be installed with the arrow facing the direction of majority rotation. Failure to do so will cause vibration under heavy load.

  13. Install the brake pads, anti-rattle clip, and brake pad retainer pins into the brake caliper. Refer to Front Disc Brake Pads Replacement.
  14. Install the brake caliper assembly to the vehicle. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement.

Front Brake Caliper Overhaul LWB SWB

Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in the Preface section.

Caution: Refer to Brake Dust Caution in the Preface section.

Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in the Preface section.

Disassembly Procedure

Important: 

   • Replace all the components included in the repair kit used to service the brake caliper.
   • Lubricate the rubber parts with brake fluid conforming to specification to make assembly easier. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
   • If any hydraulic component is removed or disconnected, it may be necessary to bleed all or part of the brake system.
   • The torque values specified are for dry, non-lubricated fasteners.
   • Perform the service operations on a clean bench, free from all mineral oil materials.

  1. Remove the brake caliper from the vehicle. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement.
  2. Drain the brake fluid from the brake caliper.

  3. Object Number: 1943493  Size: SH

    Important: To remove the guide pin bolts (8) use a suitable tool to hold the flat section on the guide pins (6) whilst loosening the guide pin retaining bolts (8).

  4. Remove the guide pin retaining bolts (8).
  5. Separate the brake caliper housing (7) from the brake caliper anchor plate (4).
  6. Remove the brake pads (1 and 3).
  7. Remove the retainer clips (2).
  8. Withdraw the guide pins (6) and dust boots (5) from the brake caliper anchor plate (4).
  9. Separate the dust boots (5) from the guide pins (6).

    Caution: Do not place fingers in front of the caliper piston(s) in an attempt to catch or protect it when applying compressed air. The piston(s) can fly out with force and could result in serious bodily injury.

    Notice: Use clean cloths to pad interior of caliper housing during piston removal. Use just enough air to ease the pistons out of the bores. If the pistons are blown out, even with the padding provided, it may be damaged.

    Important: Observe the pistons coming out of the bores. If one of the pistons appears to be seized, STOP applying air pressure.


    Object Number: 1943492  Size: SH
  10. Remove the brake caliper pistons by directing low pressure compressed air into the brake caliper inlet hole.
  11. If one of the pistons appears to be seized, perform the following steps:

    8.1. Place a 25 mm (1 in) block of wood between the brake caliper and the brake caliper piston that was moving freely.

            Important: Position the ends of the G-clamp against the rear of the brake caliper and against the 25 mm (1 in) block of wood.

    8.2. Install a large G-clamp over the body of the brake caliper.
    8.3. Remove the brake seized caliper piston by directing low pressure compressed air into the brake caliper inlet hole.
    8.4. Remove the G-clamp from the brake caliper.
    8.5. Remove the block of wood from the brake caliper.
  12. Install clean workshop cloths (1) to pad the interior of the brake caliper (3) between the remaining brake caliper piston and the body of the brake caliper (3).
  13. To cover the open brake caliper bore place a 25 mm (1 in) block of wood (2) between the body of the brake caliper (3) and the brake caliper dust boot seal.
  14. Important: Position the ends of the G-clamp against the rear of the brake caliper (3) and against the 25 mm (1 in) block of wood (2).

  15. Install a large G-clamp over the body of the brake caliper (1).
  16. Remove the brake caliper piston by directing low pressure compressed air into the brake caliper inlet hole.
  17. Remove the G-clamp form the brake caliper (3).
  18. Remove the block of wood (2) from the brake caliper (3).

  19. Object Number: 1943495  Size: SH

    Important: Use a small wooden or plastic tool to avoid damage to the brake caliper (1).

    Important: Brake caliper seals are single use components only and must be discarded after removal.

  20. With the brake caliper pistons (4) removed, remove the brake caliper piston dust boot seal (3) from the brake caliper (1).
  21. Discard the brake caliper piston dust boot seal (3).

  22. Remove the brake caliper piston seal (2) from the brake caliper (1).
  23. Discard the brake caliper piston seal (2).

  24. Remove the brake caliper bleeder valve (6).
  25. Inspect the brake caliper anchor plate guide surfaces for corrosion and wear.
  26. Replace the brake caliper assembly if damaged or worn.

  27. Clean the brake caliper piston bores (5) with denatured alcohol, or equivalent.
  28. Important: DO NOT use abrasives to clean the brake caliper assembly.

  29. Clean the brake caliper pistons (4) with denatured alcohol, or equivalent.
  30. Clean the brake caliper bleeder valve (6).
  31. Dry the brake caliper piston bores (5) with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  32. Dry the brake caliper pistons (4) with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  33. Dry the brake caliper bleeder valve (6) with non-lubricated, filtered air.
  34. Inspect the brake caliper bores (5) for cracks, scoring, pitting, too much corrosion.
  35. If cracks, scoring, pitting, and too much corrosion are present in the brake caliper bores (5), replace the brake caliper assembly.

  36. Inspect the brake caliper pistons (4) for cracks, scoring, and/or damage.
  37. If cracks, scoring, and/or damage are present in the brake caliper pistons (4), replace the brake caliper pistons (4) if any of these conditions exist.

Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in the Preface section.

Caution: Refer to Brake Dust Caution in the Preface section.

Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in the Preface section.

Assembly Procedure

Important: 

   • Replace all the components included in the repair kit used to service the brake brake caliper.
   • Lubricate the rubber parts with brake fluid conforming to specification to make assembly easier. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
   • If any hydraulic component is removed or disconnected, it may be necessary to bleed all or part of the brake system.
   • The torque values specified are for dry, non-lubricated fasteners.
   • Perform the service operations on a clean bench, free from all mineral oil materials.

    Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1943495  Size: SH
  1. Install the brake caliper bleeder valve (6).
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the bleeder valve to 12 Nm (106 lb in).

  3. Lubricate the NEW brake caliper piston seals (2) with brake fluid conforming to specification, from a clean, sealed brake fluid container. Refer to Brake System Specifications for correct brake fluid specification.
  4. Important: When installing, make sure the brake caliper piston seals (2) are not twisted.

  5. Install the brake caliper piston seals (2) into the seal grooves in the brake caliper bores (5).
  6. Lubricate the brake caliper bores (5) and pistons (4) with brake fluid.
  7. Install the brake caliper pistons (4) into the caliper bores (5).
  8. Install the NEW brake caliper piston dust boot seals (3) over the brake caliper pistons (4).
  9. Complete the following for both brake caliper piston dust boot seals (3).
  10. 7.1. Fully seat the brake caliper piston dust boot seal (4) into the brake caliper (1).
    7.2. Make sure the brake caliper piston dust boot seal (4) is correctly seated into the groove in the brake caliper bore (5).

    Object Number: 1943493  Size: SH
  11. Lubricate the guide pins (6) with silicone grease, such as Dow Corning No. 44 or equivalent.
  12. Install guide pins (6) into the brake caliper anchor plate (4).
  13. Do not fit the two guide pin boots (5) at this stage.

    Important: To install the guide pin bolts (8) use an open-end spanner to hold the flat section on the guide pins (6) whilst installing the guide pin bolts (8).

  14. Install the brake caliper (7) to the brake caliper anchor plate (4) and install NEW guide pin bolts (8).
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the guide pin bolts to 42 Nm (31 lb ft).

    Important: Make sure that the brake caliper (7) and guide pins (6) slide in and out easily from the brake caliper anchor plate (4). If any binding is evident, then steps 8 and 9 must be repeated.

  16. Detach the brake caliper (7) from the brake caliper anchor plate (4) and install the NEW guide pin boots (5) to the guide pins (6).
  17. Install the brake pad retainers (2) to the brake caliper anchor plate (4).
  18. Important: The brake pads (1 and 3) are marked as inner and outer only. Failure to install the front brake pads (1 and 3) in their correct position will cause the brake pads (1 and 3) not to seat correctly in the brake caliper (7).

  19. Install the brake pads (1 and 3) to the brake caliper anchor plate (4).
  20. Important: Remove all excess air from the guide pin boot (5) and make sure that each guide pin boot (5) is correctly located in the grooves in the guide pin (6) and brake caliper anchor plate (4).

  21. Assemble the brake caliper (7) and brake caliper anchor plate (4) together.
  22. Install the brake caliper assembly to the vehicle. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement.