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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Brake Calipers

Hi All

I am looking to replace the seals and pistons if they need it on my MKII midget.

I have read in several places that the calipers should not be split in two. Why is this and is it correct or just a precaution? If a new seal is fitted and they are torqued up correctly is there any other danger that I am missing.

Thanks again

Tony
A Brough

I have read that too. Trying to work on an assembled calliper isn't that easy, so I always dismantle it, not forgetting to fit a new bridge seal when reassembling.
Dave O'Neill 2

Tony,
They can be, and I have done it. But I guess no-one wants to take the responsibility of recommending a DIY job.
Co-incidentally, I have just today bought a new pair from Sussex Classics Cars at £46 + VAT each, less than their price for re-con ones! And by the time you have bought 4 new pistons, seals etc its not that much of a saving on buying these new replacements.

Guy

Guy Weller

Thanks for the replies.

When you have split them in the past did either of you use new bolts or the original ones?

The Sussex Classics sound a goog price for new one do you know what make they are?

Thanks again

Tony
A Brough

Tony,
I reused bolts, 'though perhaps I shouldn't have! I did use new bridge seals (square sectioned O rings) They have worked fine for the last 45,000 miles but on an inspection last week I found that the chrome was pitting.

The new ones aren't labelled so I don't know the manufacturer. They look OK though - properly machined, and what looks like yellow passivated plating. I haven't removed the pistons to inspect yet.

Guy Weller

I used new bolts. 'cos they are supposed to be "one stretch only" types

So they say

But thats probably just a get out for liability's sake

But that might not be!

Awkward innit

new square section seals inside too

but considering how little the new seals and dust covers enjoyed being put back together I would go with the SC ones myself next time too
bill sdgpm

Just been looking at the sussex classic website and new calipers are £55 each side??

Am I looking in the wrong place??

Jon
J WHITE

MGB ones are only a tenner more, 9" brakes beckon you :-)
Brad (Sprite IV 1380)

Isn't that simply as stated £46 plus VAT?

On occassions when I have rebuilt calipers I have always used the same bolts. Not sure I would officially advise anyone to do that but it is my car. :) and I can check things regularly to ensure everything is fine.

I think the price of modern recon units ETC. make doing your own a complete waste of time personally!
Robert (Bob) Midget Turbo

I've replaced quite a few pistons and seals on MGB calipers without splitting them - Midget should be the same - can't think of any problem.

First fix one piston from moving with a thin bit of wood and a cramp. Then attach a tyre pump to the hydraulic hose hole and blow out the other piston (cover with rag to avoid any residual fluid flying around) - I used a 12 volt battery tyre pump.
Keep fingers clear !!! Don't ask !

Replace seals/piston - use the correct rubber lube.

Repeat procedure for second piston.

R.
richard boobier

Sorry, That will teach me to read!!!!

Jon
J WHITE

This thread was discussed between 30/03/2010 and 01/04/2010

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

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