Gentlemen - I will be having a shop install rear brake rotors for me soon. I think I saw somewhere on this forum that the rear bleeders should be opened when either removing or installing the calipers. I can't seem to find that reference now that I need it. There are two shop's that I trust to install the rotors for me, but I don't know if they are aware of the opening of the bleeder during rotor installation. If that, in fact, is what should be done, I would like to copy the posting and show them. I know them and they won't be offended.

If anyone is aware of that posting, can you let me know the title so I can look it up. If no one know's of the posting but is familiar with installing the rear rotors, can you refer me to the correct procedure concerning the calipers removal and installation.

Thank you for your help,

Jim Holian
jpmlholian@aol.com

 

It is in debate whether you need to open the bleeders or not when pushing the pistons back into the caliper bore.

 

 

I've always pushed the caliper piston back when I installed new pads and/or rotors. Like others have stated, I only push the piston back a sufficient distance to allow clearance for the new rotor and/or pads. I also loosen the master cylinder cap which better enables the fluid to be pushed back by piston.

And I agree that since a brake pad and/or rotor install is somewhat a major maintenance event, I agree with the previous feedback that it is a good time to flush the brake system. And I use "Speed Bleeders" to allow that to be relatively easy for a 1-man DIY maintenance task. I've also used the "Speed Bleeder" to drain the fluid expelled by pushing the piston back into the caliper. Once you're done, just re-tighten the "Speed Bleeder" screw.