There are several possible causes. Something could be wrong with the brake line or piston. But often the problem is a stuck caliper pin. One or both of the little rails the caliper slides along — the caliper guide pins — get sluggish or seized.

Why do caliper pins get stuck?

There are several possible causes. Something could be wrong with the brake line or piston. But often the problem is a stuck caliper pin. One or both of the little rails the caliper slides along — the caliper guide pins — get sluggish or seized.

Should caliper pins be greased?

Before we re-insert the caliper guide pins into the caliper housing, they need to be properly lubricated. But remember, it’s always best to check your vehicle’s service manual before doing this kind of work. You’re going to need some high-temperature grease. … They should slide right in if you used enough grease.

Can a stuck caliper fix itself?

Originally Answered: Can a brake caliper unstuck itself? Very unlikely. There’s a lot of hydraulic pressure acting on it when the brakes are applied and if that’s not moving the piston then the cause (usually corrosion) will need to be addressed.

Do you grease caliper bolts?

Before putting the caliper bolts back into their spot, they need to be lubricated properly. Brakes are one of the hottest places for your car, so you’re going to need high-temperature grease. This lubricant is synthetic and can withstand the high temperatures that your car’s brakes will reach.

Should you use Loctite on caliper bolts?

STOC #687. I’ve never used Loctite on the caliper bolts on any bike I’ve ever owned in over 400k miles of riding. Red loctite is the one that is considered permanent and requires a lot of torque and/or heat to remove, so that would seem like total overkill. Blue is probably the better choice if you use any at all.

What happens if you don't grease caliper pins?

This lack of lubrication causes a few things to happen. First, because the brakes don’t contact the rotor properly, your brake pads can wear unevenly. Second, the slide pins may stick, causing the brake pad to continually contact the rotor, resulting in a buildup of heat, which wears your brake pads down faster.

What kind of grease do you use on caliper pins?

Our pick for the best brake caliper grease is the Mission Automotive Dielectric Grease/Silicone Paste/Waterproof Marine Grease. It’s waterproof and seals and protects various components, including brake caliper pins. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Permatex Ultra Disc Brake Caliper Lube.

How tight should caliper pins be?

Snug is fine. Caliper bolts are loaded in SHEAR, which means a force they experience is trying to cut them off as if they were being decapitated. The tightness of the bolt IS important, but not as important as the strength of the bolt to resist the shear forces.

Can I use anti seize on caliper bolts?

If you use it on caliper slides they will seize up and become frozen in place. If you use it to lubricate the pads they will also become stuck and not move properly. It won’t take long either, just a couple of thousand miles before it will harden up.

Article first time published on

Should you put thread lock on caliper bolts?

No man don’t use thread locker if you’re reusing the bolts. Just make sure the threads aren’t damaged, clean of dirty stuff use a bit of anti-seize and torque to specs.

What is the difference between red and blue Loctite?

Loctite threadlockers are primarily designed to prevent fasteners from leaking or loosening from vibration. The difference between red and blue threadlocker is a matter of strength and removability. Loctite threadlocker blue is designed to easily be replaceable with common tools, whereas red is a more permanent fix.

Do you need to torque caliper bolts?

Because caliper bolts MUST stay on, they need a LOT of torque. AutoZone, for example, recommends 113 pound feet of torque. To put that number in perspective, the average person can, according to NASA, apply about 15 pound feet with a bare hand.

Can you use lithium grease on brake caliper pins?

Don’t use lithium grease. Don’t use expensive grease with a needlessly exotic formula. Braking for cars and motorcycles is what is considered safety critical.

Can you use copper grease on caliper pins?

Never use copper grease there, and lithium grease can attack some rubbers/plastics.

Can you use white lithium grease on brake calipers?

White lithium is a low-temperature grease that can be used to lubricate drum brake hardware and backing plates, but lacks the heat-resistance for front disc brake applications. So it’s not the best choice for general brake work.

Can you use dielectric grease on brake caliper pins?

Dielectric grease dies not conduct electricity and does not cure (stays pliable), silicone does not conduct electricity and cures to a hard form. Neither should be used on brakes. Slide pins should use synthetic grease for that purpose. Its better to use synthetic grease on slide pins, labeled for disc brakes.

Should I put anti-seize on lug nuts?

But experts tell us not to use any lubricant, including anti-seize compound, on wheel studs or nuts. The tech folks at Tire Rack state: “Torque specifications are for dry threads only. The fastener threads should be free of oil, dirt, grit, corrosion, etc. It is important NOT to lubricate hardware threads or seats.

Do I need copper anti-seize for brakes?

Caliper compressors, copper anti-seize, and brake grease The compressor will allow you to press the piston back into the caliper safely and with minimal effort as seen above, the brake grease will help prevent stuck sliders, and copper anti-seize is perfect for brakes due to its higher heat threshold.

Does Threadlocker actually work?

Threadlockers are anaerobic chemicals. They only cure in the absence of air and in the presence of active metals such as iron, steel, and copper. Threadlockers won’t cure sitting out in the open air. The curing process only begins after you tighten up your fastener, which squeezes out the air.

Does Threadlocker prevent corrosion?

Threadlocker, also known as thread-locking fluid, is an adhesive used to prevent threaded fasteners from loosening. It may also be used to seal threads and prevent corrosion. … It also works on smaller, more delicate fasteners, such as electronic devices.

What is blue Loctite used for?

Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 is designed for the locking and sealing of threaded fasteners which require normal disassembly with standard hand tools. The product cures when confined in the absence of air between close fitting metal surfaces.

Is there a green Loctite?

LOCTITE® Green Threadlocker is recommended for locking preassembled fasteners, e.g. electrical connectors and set screws. The product is categorized as medium-to-high-strength for wicking. It is also available in a liquid form, cures in 24 hours and can be removed with heat and hand tools.

What is the weakest Loctite?

Loctite Purple (222): Low Strength Threadlockers From the lowest side of the spectrum is the Loctite Purple. This strength is perfect for fasteners less than 6mm.