1988 Voyager Front Brakes

[bamafanforlife]

Hi, I have a 1988 Voyager and the front brakes started making noise.
I checked them and the right front sides pads were worn down and the rotor was badly grooved on the back side only. I bought a new rotor and pads and I am ready to replace them, the problem I am having is,
I can't figure out how to get the caliper off so I can replace the pads
and the rotor. I thought it would have been the two bolts on the very back side of the caliper, but I broke my rachet trying to get one of those loose. the caliper and rotor amost just slide off, but won't.
I know I may just sound like an idiot, but could some one please help?

thanks in advance

[digimon]

This sounds like you caliper has seized up with rust and brake dust. You brake pad has become set into the grooved rotor. You may have to replace them (calipers) as well if you can't free you up the piston. These need to be working freely or the pads will not apply themselves to the rotor. The two bolts that you are referring to are called caliper guide pins you need to loosen these but don’t take them out unless you are replacing the bushings or sleeves (try liquid wrench or some like it not "WD40" and let it work its way into the threads over night if need be) braking these wouldn't be a good thing. If the pistons have seized you may have to pry them open to get the caliper off. You can pry on the outer shoe since you are going to replace it away if you damage it no problem, just don’t bend the outer side of the caliper. Once you get the caliper off check the piston seals for leaks (brake fluid in and round the boot area and inboard lining) and any ruptures of the piston dust boot. If this boot is damaged, or a fluid leak is visible, disassemble the caliper and install a new seal and boot and piston if it is scored. If the piston is completely seized up and cannot be freed up you should replace the whole thing. While you have the front end apart it would be a good time to check out the boots on the drive shaft there are two large boots one on either side (CV boots), if you see noticeable amounts of grease on the outside of these boots this would be an indication of a; puncture, tear or that the clamp is loose. Clean this boot with soap and water only other solvents may not be compatible. If this boot is let go for to long your (CV joints) will need to be replaced from all the road grit that will get into them a real large repair bill. Ride On, digimon

[bamafanforlife]

Thanks for the reply and the awesome advice. I finally figured out how to remove the caliper, one guide bolt and it was off. Both front calipers were shot. Only one of the rotors had enough damage to have to replace it. So I have replaced one rotor, two calipers, and all front pads. thanks again.

[digimon]

That's no problem I have been where you are with my 88' Caravan. You may want to think twice about not replacing the other rotor. But if you already have it back together just take for a test drive and try those new brakes to see if pulls to one side. If it don't- it don't. On the front I like to keep it matched. Don't forget what I said about your CV boots, just check them from time to time. This is a problem with any front wheel drive auto. "Long May She Run" Neil Young

Ride on, digimon