THSCC Forums

The rear calipers on the Miata have an allen screw on the back of the caliper that retracts the piston.

One of mine works but one seems disconnected. It will push the piston out but not retract it. I can use a clamp to move the piston in once the screw is backed off.

Should I replace the caliper? Any easy way to fix it? Any safety issues with just using it as is?

Also, is there a need to use the brake pad shims on track pads?

Thanks.

Charlie neither of the rear calipers retract on my 1990, and I've used them this way for four years now with no ill effects. I don't use shims either. I just do as you did and push them back with a C clamp.

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2004 C5(415whp,390ft/lbs),
1997C5,1997Trans Am, 1986 C4,
1990 Miata, 1976 MGB,1997 Protege, 1989 MR2

Mine still works, but I don't doubt Bernie for a bit.
The Allen screw/adjuster is actually removable. So if you're worried you can remove it from the back of the caliper. The splines are probably just worn so you can file it down to clean it up a bit. Or use the one from the other side ...

Frank

I took the adjuster screw out and it looks OK so I assume the issue is internal. I will try the swap just in case I missed something. Since it works for Bernie, I am going to use a clamp to retract the piston, reassemble and test. If all goes well, I will be on track tomorrow instead of on the sidelines.

Thanks for the info.

Basically it means you'll have no ebrake on that one side but from a normal brake pedal actuation standpoint, the brakes will be fine.

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2011/2012 Autox VP
2013/2014.5 President
2013 Top Gun

2015 Fit

22R-EC => 4G63 => D16Y7 + D16Y8 => EJ255 + K24Z2 => K20Z3 + K24Z2 => K24Z2 + M54 => L15B

I do the clamp method too. and the pins will fall out and get lost on the road if you forget to put the bolt/cap thing back on.

BTW Charlie, you need to come out again.

Rob

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1990 Faded Reddish CSP Lite Miata
2002 Electron Blue Corvette Z06
2005 Mazda 6 Wagon
2003 Nissan Pathfinder DTV (Dog Transport Vehicle)