MOT Failure - Front NS Brake Binding

[beefio]

I haven’t been using my F enough over the winter and notice that the brakes are sticking when I get in it and it failed the MOT on the front NS brake binding.

Is this something I can fix myself?

What is the best remedy?

Any advice?

[talkingcars]

It is possible to clean up the sliders so they move more freely if they aren't too far gone.

[beefio]

That’s what the MOT tester said...

What’s the best way to go about that?

[Mykel]

Remove caliper and bracket, use a set of suitably sized wire brushes and clean down to bare metal. Be careful not to touch the piston gaskets.
Use some copper grease on sliding surfaces. WD40 or other petroleum based stuff is not recommended on brakes, as the rubber material used is resistant against brake fluid, and probably sensitive to oil.

[mgtfnut]

WD40 or other petroleum based stuff is not recommended on brakes, as the rubber material used is resistant against brake fluid, and probably sensitive to oil.

Mmm, I think you'll find copper grease is hydrocarbon based stock, and totally unsuitable for rubber

"Red" rubber grease is the normally accepted grease/ lube for brake lubrication - don't forget one of the sliding pins has a rubber sheath. OE replacements has a clear lube, probably a silicon based stock, but red rubber grease is available and vegetable based for sure.

Of course, copper grease is fine for lubing the metal sliding pads/caliper bits.

[beefio]

OK Ive got some small wire brushes and just bought some red rubber grease, anything else that I might need?

Or any other tips?

[Mykel]

Of course, copper grease is fine for lubing the metal sliding pads/caliper bits.

That’s what I meant to use it for. Thanks for the clarification!

[beefio]

Ive got some copper grease too, anything else that I might need or any other tips?

[Geoff.F]

Your initial question was "Can You Fix This Yourself".
Brakes are the most important safety item on the car. The work should be carried out by a well trained Mechanic or an experienced DIYer. Training by Tips on the Forum is the road to disaster.
May I suggest that you try to find a local "F"er to help and oversee your work or suggest a local garage to do it. Not a big job but critical.
You should also consider doing both sides to maintain them balanced.
Geoff.F

[beefio]

Hear what you’re saying Geoff, sensible advice.

I’m relatively handy around the F, have changed the brake lines and fluid etc just not worked on the calipers before.

The tester said it looks likes the front NS slider just needs a clean up and should be an easy job hence I thought I’d just try and sort it myself and I enjoy learning how to maintain my own car...

[beefio]

OK I’ve taken out the bolts to remove the Caliper however it is stuck in the disc due to there being a slight rim on the outer of the disc that the pads can’t pass over.

I tried removing the two bolts on the sliders but that made no difference.

How can I get the calipers off?

[beefio]

I trying to sort it right now so any help would be very much appreciated!

[beefio]

Done it, just a bit more persuasion required

[talkingcars]

I've had that problem in the past - my solution was to use a stout screwdriver between the outer pad and the caliper to force the piston back in.

[beefio]

So I wire brushed everything, cleaned and regreased the sliders and it passed the MOT second time round.

£60 saved and more MGF maintenance experience under my belt...thanks for the help!

[Mykel]