My front brake sticks and drags on the rotor a bit. I need to get in there and clean it. I have been told to remove the brake pads and then pump the brake lever to get the pistons out a bit but to be very careful to not overdo it-I just don't know what that limit is. I heard if you over pump it the piston can pop out then you have a nightmare on your hands. If anybody had a pic of the pistons out to a safe limit for cleaning or even a measurement that would be most appreciated. Cheers.

You need to take them all the way apart to clean them properly. Bite the bullet and remove the caliper. The pistons will come out with a little air. No nightmare at all. Just do it right the first time.

Ok sound. Line are the pistons easy to put back in?

Yes , as long as they are not damaged. Clean everything well and re-assemble. Do not loose the small o ring between the halves. Of course you have to bleed the system.

Click the link for the proper tool.

http://www.bikerstoolbox.co.uk/acatalog/Brake_Service_Tools.html

Even if you only use it once a year you will be glad you had it.

I have a similar home fabricated tool that I made before I realized you could get the small ones, It has saved alot of time over the years.

That is funny. A tool to tell you to clean your system. On a side note we live on the steps of Hell. No extra H2O around here! I carry water just to make it to the first section! I do agree on the Red Rubber grease. Everything else is not needed if you keep up your bike. But I do have a burnt up rear caliper to pull apart!

Edited February 12, 201511 yr by lineaway

Upkeep is the best solution, I've only had to sort calipers on bikes I've just brought or other peoples. One of the 1st jobs on a new bike is strip and clean calipers.

My bikes live in mud but I jet wash the calipers well after every ride and most importantly blow them dry with compressed air after washing along with drying the rest of the bike before I put it to bed.