The MADDOX SUPERIOR AUTOMOTIVE TOOLS 11 Pc. Disc Brake and Caliper Service Tool Kit (Item 63264) is a specialized set of tools designed for servicing disc brake calipers on various vehicles. This kit is intended for use by qualified technicians and is crucial for safely and effectively compressing and rotating caliper pistons during brake pad replacement and other brake system maintenance.
Function Description:
The primary function of this kit is to facilitate the servicing of disc brake calipers, specifically for single-piston front brake calipers and single-piston rear brake calipers with internal threaded rod parking brake actuators. When replacing brake pads, the caliper piston often needs to be compressed back into the caliper body to accommodate the thicker new pads. For some vehicles, especially those with integrated parking brake mechanisms, the piston also needs to be rotated as it is compressed. This tool kit provides the necessary adapters (discs) and a thrust bolt mechanism to perform these tasks without damaging the caliper or piston.
The kit includes a T-Handle (1-1) which serves as the main operating handle for the thrust bolt. The thrust bolt, in conjunction with a plate (1) and various discs (0, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9), allows for the precise application of force and rotation to the caliper piston. The different discs are designed to mate with the specific piston patterns found on a wide range of vehicle makes and models, ensuring compatibility and preventing damage.
Important Technical Specifications:
The kit comprises 11 pieces, including:
- T-Handle (1-1): The primary handle for operating the thrust bolt.
- Plate (1): Used in conjunction with the thrust bolt to provide a stable base against the caliper.
- Thrust Bolt: The central threaded rod that applies force to the piston.
- Nut: Used to turn the thrust bolt and compress the piston.
- 9 Different Discs/Adapters: These are crucial for compatibility with various caliper piston designs. They include:
- 2-1/2" Single Pin Disc for General Motors® '79 Seville, El Dorado (0)
- 1-1/4" Hex Disc for Saab®, Honda® (2)
- 1-3/16" Two Pin Disc for Renault® R21, Laguna (3)
- 1-1/4" Two Pin Disc for Ford®, AU & NZ, Telstar, Laser (R), Saab 9000 (R), Fiat/Alfa Romeo® 1642 (R), Honda Prelude, CRS, 16i, GM Saturn, Grand Prix, Lumina (R) (4)
- 3/8" Adapter (5)
- 1-21/32" Two Pin Disc for Nissan® Primera, VW-Golf IV® (6)
- 1-1/4" Two Pin Disc for Opel® (7)
- 1-7/8" Single Pin Disc for General Motors (8)
- 2-1/8" Single Pin Disc for General Motors, Cadillac Seville & El Dorado (9)
- Carrying Case (10): For organized storage and protection of the tools.
The specific disc compatibility listed indicates the broad range of vehicles this kit can service, from older models like the '79 Seville to more contemporary vehicles from manufacturers like Ford, Nissan, Honda, Saab, and GM. The inclusion of both single-pin and two-pin discs, along with hex and various diameter options, highlights its versatility.
Usage Features:
The tool kit is designed for straightforward operation, though it requires adherence to specific safety and procedural guidelines.
- Vehicle Preparation: The process begins with raising and safely securing the vehicle, releasing the parking brake, and removing the wheel, brake caliper, worn brake pads, and hardware.
- Tool Assembly: The T-Handle, Plate, and appropriate Disc are assembled onto the Thrust Bolt. The Disc selection is critical and depends on the vehicle's brake caliper piston type. The manual advises referring to the Parts List and Diagram and the vehicle service manual for correct disc identification. Anti-seize should be applied to the Thrust Bolt threads for smooth operation.
- Installation into Caliper: The assembled tool is then installed into the caliper, ensuring the Plate rests inside the caliper face and the Disc is aligned with the caliper piston.
- Piston Compression/Rotation: For single-piston front calipers, the Nut is turned with a wrench to force the caliper piston in until it is fully compressed. For single-piston rear calipers with internal threaded rod parking brake actuators, the T-Handle is turned to rotate the caliper piston while the Nut is used to compress it.
- Post-Service Procedures: After servicing the caliper according to the vehicle manufacturer's instructions, the caliper, new brake pads, and wheels are reassembled. Crucially, the brakes must be pressurized by repeatedly pressing the brake pedal (5-6 times) until it engages firmly. The parking brake should also be engaged and disengaged repeatedly.
- Brake Testing: Before driving, the brakes must be thoroughly tested to ensure proper operation and safety.
Maintenance Features:
Proper maintenance of the tool kit ensures its longevity and safe operation.
- Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, the entire kit should be inspected for any signs of damage, including loose hardware, misalignment or binding of moving parts, cracked or broken parts, or any other condition that could affect its safe operation. Damaged equipment should not be used.
- Post-Use Cleaning: After each use, the external surfaces of the tools should be wiped clean with a soft cloth.
- Storage: The kit should be stored in its original carrying case (10) in a clean, dry place, out of reach of children. This protects the tools from damage and loss.
- Label Maintenance: Labels and nameplates on the product, which carry important safety information, should be maintained. If they become unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for replacements.
- Professional Servicing: Procedures not specifically explained in the manual should only be performed by a qualified technician. The manufacturer emphasizes that all repairs and parts replacements should be undertaken by certified and licensed technicians.
The manual also includes general safety warnings, such as keeping children and bystanders away, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (safety goggles, dust mask/respirator, heavy-duty work gloves), being aware of hazardous substances like asbestos in brake dust, maintaining a clean and well-lit work area, staying alert, dressing properly, and consulting a physician if using a pacemaker due to potential electromagnetic interference. It stresses the importance of using the correct product for the correct vehicle and not modifying the tool for unintended purposes.
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