Caliper assembly technique question

[rchalmers3]

For those of you who rebuild calipers, what is your technique for fitting the dust boots and fixing them with the set rings? The FSM simply says "do it", but the landing is small and there is no retaining groove to give the boot some purchase grip.

I have done a few pairs now and find it most difficult to get the boots to stay on the tiny landing. Then when I place the set ring the boot pops right off. I have tried to change the assembly order by fitting the boot to the piston before installing both into the bore. I have also tried to fit the dust boot with the set ring already installed. I discovered that if the boot and the landing surfaces are dry and clean there is a little more "bite" and I can get a little closer to success.

BTW, this is not an issue that plagues Toyota calipers exclusively. I struggle with it on other marques as well.

Any technique tips are appreciated. However please don't comment if you wish to recommend purchasing rebuilt calipers.

Cheers,

Rick

 

[97kurt]

I've done a set of tundra calipers and do not remember there being anything hard about it. But just like you said, with the piston in place, put the new boot on. Then expand the new rings a tad and slip them onto the base. Never had one come off. Then again the pistons do not move all that far once the pads are in and the rotor is in place.