Caliper installation

[fast eddy]

I've installed 4 rebuilt calipers in my79' coupe. They're the stock Delco Morraine. The rear calipers are fine, but I've noticed that the front ones leak about 1 drop every 24 hrs.. The leak isn't coming from the pistons, but rather from the crossover passage between the inboard side and the outboard side of the caliper. I've replaced the 'O' rings twice, and it doesn't seem to make any difference. The bolts are tight to 130 Ft./lbs. Did I screw up by splitting the halves when I installed? Anyone experience similar difficulties?

 

[c4ever]

Was there a reason for splitting them?

Carlo

 

[fast eddy]

The reason I split them was because I found it was easier to attach the brake line to the inboard half of the caliper without disconnecting the line from the steel brake line. In other words, I threaded the caliper on the brake line rather than vice versa. Also it's easier to fit the pads in between the pistons and the rotor.

 

[c4ever]

I struggled with the same issues but was able to replace both recently without disassembling. I would re-check o rings and make sure surfaces are true and clean. Seems strange that both units leak.
Wish I had a better answer. good luck with it.

Carlo

 

[Cream79L82]

I just spent the majority of my weekend messing with leaking calipers, so I know how you feel. One drop a day is a lot better than I was dealing with anyway... I used the same technique you did too, except I put the the whole caliper assembly together and torqued the bolts and then free spun the entire assembly to attach the brake hose. If the calipers are new, or remachined as you say, then I doubt it would be the surface where the two halves meet. I would suspect that the o-rings are not allowed to seat correctly in their little bore with the caliper vertical. I would suggest putting the caliper half that has the indentions for the o rings on the ground facing up. Seat the rings, and then be sure to put the other half directly down on top of the other half. Get both bolts in a few threads.. tighten one side down all the way down finger tight, then torque the other one all the way in and finish the other one. You should be able to get the whole assembly back on there with some help from your lower back. Good luck and let us know how you turned out.
-Jon

 

[fast eddy]

That was going to be my next plan. I've actually ordered a new set of calipers because I've had these apart three times now. If the new set comes assembled, I'm not going to take them apart. I'll just make sure they're well torqued.