Repair guides › Brakes
Center a hydraulic caliper
Disc brake moved by fluid instead of cable: more power, self-adjusting as pads wear. The lever piston pushes fluid that moves pistons on both sides of the caliper.
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Tools
- Ball-end hex key set (1.5–10 mm): Park Tool HXS-1.2 Professional L-Shaped Hex Set ($$)
- 1/4" click torque wrench (about 2–17 Nm) + bits: Pro Bike Tool 1/4 inch drive click torque wrench set (2.2–16.9 Nm) ($$)
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Steps
- Loosen mount bolts.
- Squeeze the lever and hold.
- Tighten bolts alternately.
- Spin to check for rub.
Torque
| Fastener | Torque |
|---|---|
| Caliper mount bolts | 6–8 Nm (Shimano/Tektro) · SRAM/Avid 9.5 Nm · check the caliper |
Signs it needs doing
- Spongy lever
- Lever pumps up
- Pads drag after a long descent
- Fluid leak