Rear Brake Caliper replacing dust gaiter

[TheFox_1]

Hi all,

Recently changed the rear pads/discs on our A6 2.5 TDi Avant and when putting new pads in noticed one of the dust gaiters is ripped:zx11: (it could have been me as I wound the caliper back - and yes, I did use the 'special tool'!)

Is it possible to change the gaiters without taking the caliper off?

Many thanks

[allan_audi]

If its the piston dust cover you need to remove the piston as the cover fits in a recess behind the piston. Means dismantling the caliper. You can get the seals though online or through a dealer.

[TheFox_1]

Hi Allan,

Yes, think we are talking about the same cover. It's the one you can see when you wind back the caliper piston. I had a horrible feeling that was going to be the case :mad:.
Is there a guide or 'how to' anywhere?

Cheers

[allan_audi]

Its not too difficult, but you'll need to remove the caliper and unscrew the piston using the caliper tool. Once you have the piston out, clean everything thoroughly, use some brake clean. Then fit a new main seal, recessed into the Caliper housing, check the recess is clear of any debris or dirt first. Fit the new dust cover to the piston, but extend the lip ready to insert back into the caliper. Basically you need to get the dust cover lip into its recess before the piston is inserted. A combination of positioning the cover on the piston and feeding the lip into the caliper.

Once you have the piston inserted use the caliper tool to wind the piston back in.

Then refit and bleed the brakes.

I normally do a complete caliper overhaul, ie. remove the adjuster and replace the seals there too. But you might get away with it.

I'm not sure of any instructions other than the usual elsawin. It may be better to just get yourself a recon caliper, think about 70 quid.

[TheFox_1]

Hi Allan,

Bit late I know but thanks for the advice - all done and dusted now.

Rgds