Rear brake pad change question

Smiling End · June 07, 2008, 01:57:46 PM

So I just went to change the rear brake pads on my bike and I couldn't get the pin that holds the pads in place out of the caliper. I was using a pair of pliers to grab it and was trying to pull it straight out. When I felt around the back of the caliper the other side of the pin felt like it had some sort of washer on it. I stopped before I did any sort of damage or anything stupid. What am I doing wrong? Thanks in advance for the help.

Howie · June 07, 2008, 06:07:35 PM

The "washer" on the back is a retaining clip. Lift up and off.

Smiling End · June 07, 2008, 06:09:18 PM

Quote from: howie on June 07, 2008, 06:07:35 PM
The "washer" on the back is a retaining clip. Lift up and off.

D'oh! Of course, that would make sense. Thanks for the help!!

Slide Panda · June 08, 2008, 07:09:10 AM

Yeah, it's a little clip tp keep the pin from squirming out. The clip is a little springy so keep that in mind - it'll try and shoot off never to be found again if you're not careful.

skurvy · June 08, 2008, 09:18:12 PM

Mine was a PITA to change out. ('06 S2R) Along with the clip on the outside of the caliper, I had what I assume was a metal ring on the inside of the brake pad pin. I removed the outer clip (with the bend), and I thought the brake pad pin would slide out just like the fronts. It wouldn't budge so I tried the vise grips and that sucker moved 1mm if that.

I ended up using a c-clamp and a hex bit socket to press out the pin. As I was doing this I thought, there's no way this is the right way to do this. After the pin pushed out I saw the remains of a metal ring. There is a groove on the brake pad pin on the inner side that I guess holds everything secure. Funny thing is, it's not on the parts diagram.

That reminds me, I need to order that "Spare pins and spring" kit just in case. Part #612.4.013.1B. Btw, I put it all back together just using the outer clip and everything has been working fine.

CRASH! · June 09, 2008, 06:37:33 PM

That's called an "E-clip" for obvious reasons once you examine one.

I had the same problem; first time I couldn't get the pin out. So I gave up...pads weren't that bad.
Went back a few months later and found the clip right away. Guess I was being more methodical the second time. I grabbed it with needle nose pliers and pulled.....twing! It went flying.

Miracle of miracles; in my cluttered, sawdust covered shop, I found the friggin' thing! That's the reward of good clean living

Smiling End · June 11, 2008, 02:11:29 PM

After all the warnings and despite being extra careful that clip went flying when I took it off. Thankfully I found it. Still didn't manage to get the pin out though.

Big Troubled Bear · June 12, 2008, 05:13:18 AM

It`s a bit stuck from corrosion, spray with some WD40 and try again

Smiling End · June 15, 2008, 01:28:48 PM

Quote from: yuu on June 08, 2008, 07:09:10 AM
Yeah, it's a little clip tp keep the pin from squirming out. The clip is a little springy so keep that in mind - it'll try and shoot off never to be found again if you're not careful.

So I finally changed the pads and the clip did spring away to freedom. Unfortunately, I can't find it now. Exactly how important is it? Can I ride short distances (15 miles or so) without it? Does anyone know where I can get a replacement?

Howie · June 15, 2008, 04:14:27 PM

If the pin falls out, the brake pads follow shortly, then, if you decide to use the rear brake you have a big problem. If you really want, you could drill and safety wire it.

Smiling End · June 15, 2008, 06:01:23 PM

Yeah I know I need to put something on there. I guess I'm gonna call my local dealer and see about getting the clip.

ODrides · June 17, 2008, 11:34:03 AM

You should be able to find a clip like that at a hardware store, I would think. Or if you have spare parts lying around, check to see if you can find one to scavenge. Certain levers and rear sets have retaining clips.

Smiling End · June 18, 2008, 02:36:21 PM

I went to a local hardware store today and bought a few retainer rings in various sizes (wasn't sure which was right). Luckily I got one that fits. It's not the exact same style as the one that was on there but should do the trick.

Speeddog · June 18, 2008, 02:50:09 PM

Quote from: Smiling End on June 15, 2008, 01:28:48 PM
So I finally changed the pads and the clip did spring away to freedom. Unfortunately, I can't find it now.
-------------snip--------------

That's why they're also known as jesus clips.

" F'n clip. Won't budge."
Twinnnngggg!
"Jesus! Where did that thing go?"

dlearl476 · June 18, 2008, 05:12:26 PM

Quote from: Speeddog on June 18, 2008, 02:50:09 PM
That's why they're also known as jesus clips.

" F'n clip. Won't budge."
Twinnnngggg!
"Jesus! Where did that thing go?"

Quote from: skurvy on June 08, 2008, 09:18:12 PM
Mine was a PITA to change out. After the pin pushed out I saw the remains of a metal ring. There is a groove on the brake pad pin on the inner side that I guess holds everything secure. Funny thing is, it's not on the parts diagram.

You need to go to a hardware store and buy the proper size drift to remove those. Remove the E Clip, one or two taps with the drift and a hammer and all is right with the world.

I also like to put a bit of anti-sieze on the pin when I replace it (make sure to keep it off the new pad) Makes taking them out that much easier next time.

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Rear brake pad change question