Rear brake caliper seizure

[charlier6790]

In the last two years I've had two offside rear calipers replaced (at around £200 a time) because of seizure of the handbrake mechanism on the back of the caliper assembly. Is this a common fault and what can I do to help avoid it. Can the mechanism be sprayed with grease or covered in some way?

[J44EAG]

Ant seizure I`ve ever come across with those units has been overcome by removing the caliper from its mounts, inverting and spraying with a releasing fluid. Copious exercise of the lever arms until freed off followed. The mechanism is of a ramp and ball type. A few drops of light machine oil helps keep corrosion at bay.

I would suggest you buy a Ford type piston retraction tool from Halfords as you are likely to drive out the caliper pistons during the exercise. The pistons may need to be wound back in again to allow pads to be refitted. The laser 1413 unit is the one to go for at around £15. dependent on which side of the car you are working on, the pistons may screw back in again either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

Caliper sliding pins may also seize in the caliper due to corrosion. Dismantle, clear of corrosion and apply copper grease to prevent a further occurrence.

The two above issues are fairly common.two yearly strip and lubrication should make things more reliable. Local driving conditions with high salt levels present do not help matters.

Hope that is of assistance.

Mike K

[robv12]

common, very common fault on X Type, buy a Mondeo one at £38 from a local factor, and get a local garage to bolt it on, my guy charges me £15 for his time, so not worth getting my hands dirty!!