Heads-up On Disc Brake Calipers

[IN2DEEP]

Here's a little heads up for anyone with disc brakes on their trailer that needs new brake pads.
Instead of just retracting the caliper piston back in, I just found out that you should pop the piston out to check for rust / corrosion.
It seems as a new piston extends out as the pads wear, the exposed surfaces may start to rust. Not a problem until you push the corroded surfaces back into the caliper.
I didn't notice any leakage, but the brakes started dragging because the piston started to seize in the caliper bore.

These are 4 yrs. old and always rinsed after launching and retrieving the boat.
My trailer guy tells me a 2 yr. life-span is not uncommon.
Yeah, you'll have to bleed your brakes, but it will avoid braking issues down the road.

UFP DB-42 Calipers, 12" vented rotors







Here's my fix to save myself $200+ to replace the calipers and brackets because they discontinued that caliper and no replacement parts are available...
303 stainless steel pistons. Polished on the sealing area to help prevent rust. Two more years is what I'm asking for



Scott

[Ironwoodtuna]

Wow, it is always amazing that steel rust so fast even with care. I guess there is a reason that the dont' make them in S/S???

[welder]

Dang nice pictures and I like the new ones , good choice.