A small question on rebuilding the front calipers on a '84 T/A - the shop manual mentions using a boot installation tool in reassembling the caliper. Is there a way to install the boot without the tool, or is it required?

In fact, while I'm on the subject- how difficult is it to rebuild a caliper?

 

easy to rebuild a caliper. It's been a long time since I've done one but I never used a special tool for the boot, didn't even realize there was one. I remember I had a little trouble when I first tried it but after that the second caliper went easy, just got to use a little faness and be carful not to tear the rubber when reinstalling it. The only real special tool you need for the job is compressed air.

 

When I did my rear calipers it took me about 20 min for the first one and 15 min for the second. Not bad for those being the first ones I ever did.

I didn't use a "boot installer", I was able to do it all by hand including pushing the piston back in.

 

Ok, so it sounds like I won't need the tool then. Not sure if I can get ahold of some compressed air. That's to pop the piston out of it's bore, right? Or can the piston be removed without the air?

 

i bought 2 new calipers from auto zone for my buddies z28. they where only $10 each. i know there not GM quality but the car stops better and they have lasted for 2 years now without any problems. i bought new lines, calipers, and rotors for the front of my 91z28 and it cost me under $50. car stops 100 times better. brake pads are your choice

 

Yes the compressed air is to pop the piston out, without it you risk damaging the surface of the piston. Stick with compressed air, don't risk trying another method.

 

grafx- good point. I think the bores are ok but judging from the color of my brake fluid (black) my seals are starting to deteriorate. Would like to avoid any damage, of course if that's all it is...

Ok I don't have a compressor but I've got a portable compressed air tank (like for refilling tires)- I think I can change out the tire chuck to an air nozzle and that should work...

 

yeah that should be good, just make sure you stuff a rag between the caliper and piston so that the piston doest hit the metal, also watch your fingers. I'm sure your manual already describes all the steps.