Brake bleeding after caliper change

**MrShorty** · 10-04-2008, 03:51 PM

I'm going to need to do the front brakes here soon, and was going to change the calipers while I'm at it (calipers are cheap, and I think it's a good idea after 120k miles). Obviously I will have to bleed the calipers afterwards. Can I bleed the calipers in the usual fashion without having to worry about a scanner for bleeding the ABS unit? If I do it right, I shouldn't get any air into the ABS system, so I'm hoping I won't have to take it into someone to have it bled after I'm done.

**mehoff400** · 10-04-2008, 05:14 PM

if you haven't had any problems with your calipers i think you might be just wasting your time unless your upgrading them

**tbplus10** · 10-05-2008, 11:59 AM

I agree, if you arent having problems I wouldnt change them. Most honest mechanics will tell you the same thing.
I would flush the brake system. This is done exactly like bleeding only you bleed until theres clean new fluid coming out at each fitting. Takes a lot of fluid but you'd be surprised at the change in the braking system afterwards.

**zippy** · 10-05-2008, 12:23 PM

I've changed front calipers (and the hoses) without bleeding the ABS; but, remember to plug the lines while the system is open. I thought the rule of thumb was that you needn't worry about the ABS unless you change the master cylinder. I agree with tbsplus10, get the big can of brake fluid and refresh the entire system.

**92burbanator** · 10-06-2008, 12:34 PM

I wouldnt change the calipers unless they are sticking or you have some other problem with them. my suburban has the original calipers with over 240,000 miles on them (and lots of towing in her younger years). they still work perfectly. save your money...you might need it with this economy ;)

**zippy** · 10-13-2008, 03:49 AM

Originally Posted by 92burbanator

I wouldnt change the calipers unless they are sticking or you have some other problem with them. my suburban has the original calipers with over 240,000 miles on them (and lots of towing in her younger years). they still work perfectly. save your money...you might need it with this economy ;)

Count your blessings and knock wood.
Are you really still on your OE piston seals? I do mine every other pad change, about 50K miles.