how do i get the front brake pads fully opend to go back over the rotor. I am replacing the front brake pad on my 2000 dodge stratus. I have them off. The new pads on just cannot get them spread open enough to slide back over the rotor.

Tory Doyle, May 2006

tory if your brake caliper is only fitted with 1 piston then place the caliper with 1 pad in it[not the one against the piston]over the rotor/disc you can then put a small bar or similar between the roto/disc and piston this will enable you to force the piston back far engough to get the other pad in.if you open the bleed nipple then make shaw you dont let the piston travel back or you will get air in the system.after you have opened the bleed nipple and forced the piston back place a rubber band over the piston/caliper this will stop any air getting in and keep the piston in place while you get the caliper on with bothh pads in place good luck

alanmellor, May 2006

hi
not to good on dodge's but if they are like most there should be a bleed nipple for the brake fluid.... try undoing this to release the pressure behind the pad's and piston whilst you push them back

paul, May 2006