TECH Q&A
PISTON? PISSED OFF!
Whenever I check my brake pads, I notice that the pad on one side is pushed out further than the other. Is this problematic? What can I do about it?
James, Cheltenham
This may be simply down to one seal (the component that causes the piston to retract after pushing the pad) moving a touch less than the other(s), in which case it shouldn’t cause any problems. However, it could also be the result of dirty or sticky pistons, so it’s worth giving these a clean.
To do this, remove the pads from the calliper and give the brake lever a gentle squeeze so that the pistons start to push out. It’s likely that one of the pistons (perhaps more than one, if you have four- rather than two-piston brakes) will push out further than the other(s). Take care not to squeeze the lever too hard, because you don’t
