93 JGC Front Calipers. Need help.

[blackbird24]

Hi there,

I am installing new calipers on my Jeep. I tightened the caliper bolts to factory specs. I then grabbed the caliper and moved it around to see if there was any play. To my amazement there was. I then decided to tighten the bolts even further. At this point one of the bolts broke on me. Im now wondering if the play is normal or have I done something wrong? Before removing the old calipers I did not bother to check if they had any play in them.

I should also add that I did not forget to transfer the inner metal sleeves from the old caliper to the new one. As far as I can tell I did everything by the book.

Please help.

Thank you.

[dksob81]

well the play was normal, the reason you had this play was becasue the clipers were open and slding back and forth, if you would have pumped your brakes a couple of times this would have gotten rid of that play. because the piston would have pushed the pad against the rotor and would have tightened up (less play). just replace the bolt and tighten to spec, pump and bleed the brakes, this will take care of the play

[blackbird24]

Hi dksob8,

Thank you for replying so promptly. Man, I cant believe that didnt come to me before I started to tighten the bolts. Makes perfect sense.

Thanks again.

[JDPascal]

Because the caliper bolts have been over tightened, I would recommend that you replace both caliper bolts on both sides. It is a safety thing!!!

The recommended torque is 15 - 20 ft/lb - not very much is it...... should have a torque wrench for this kind of work.

Like dksob81 says, stepping on the brakes will take up the lateral play between the pads and rotors but there may be some up and down play between the the caliper and the mounting bracket. If this is a problem you will hear a clicking sound when the wheel goes over a bump.

There are shims that fit on the ears of the pads that reduce this clearance. The ones I have came with the pads I got from NAPA at my last brake job.

The metal sleeves should be smooth and free from corosion and lubed with silicone braked grease to prevent sticking calipers that will cause uneven wear on the pads.

JD

[dksob81]

Originally Posted by blackbird24

Hi dksob8,

Thank you for replying so promptly. Man, I cant believe that didnt come to me before I started to tighten the bolts. Makes perfect sense.

Thanks again.

Yup.

and I would replace both bolts like JD said.

[blackbird24]

Excellent suggestion. I will pick up two new caliper bolts.

Thanks.

[JDPascal]

Consider getting 4 if you over tightened the ones on the other side too.

JD