18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

I'm in school for Automotive and this is a must have. Takes minutes to do brakes and its heavy duty so it can take a use. Can't complain about the tool at all.

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

This set works very well for both front and rear brakes. It's well made and very easy to use. A true harbor freight gem.

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

Rear brake

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

Great set and even better for the price if you compare it with other brands! Read how to use it before you buy it if you haven't use in before!

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

I second every other positive review and their points but did need to mention that there are two versions of this tool; Not two part numbers or two different products, but 2 revisions of this same tool that you need to watch out for. One has shear pins and one has a solid straight through construction. Let me explain in more detail:

The first version I bought online broke on first use. I do have to admit I was cranking on it trying to get a stubborn piston pushed back in (it never did go back in and was rebuilt) but this is how I noticed the fatal flaw: On the version I purchased it had a set screw/shear pin near the end to connect the magnetic tip to the threaded part of shaft. So when you crank on the handle that tiny set screw or shear pin or whatever it is breaks and shears and the tips just spin freely making the tool useless. I am not sure if this was an oversight or if it is intended to shear with too much force but IMO it is like using a ratchet for a breaker bar: It disintegrates with any significant load and isn't designed for that.

So I returned the tool to HF and they replaced it with a new one. This new one was clearly a revamp as the package is subtly different and noticeable side by side with some small differences. HOWEVER, the biggest difference is that the double handled twist levers have solid threaded bars that are welded on to the magnetic tip. Not the interchangeable tips mind you, but the end of the tool you put the tips on is one straight piece with the threaded rod now. So no longer is it two pieces and is durable and will last. The new version worked perfectly on my other caliper which had a stubborn piston as well and even the HF manager was surprised between the two versions and could clearly see the design flaw and how they improved it to make it more competent. I can see having this tool for years and being able to use it on all my cars in the future

So bottom line: GREAT tool, GREAT price, GREAT flexibility and Rev 2.0 is a must.

P.S. You can see the set screw/shear pin in the image above if you look at the large image. Do not settle with this version if you ever expect to be able to push back any piston other than the newest and easiest moving piston. Anytime you need to apply force it won't handle it. IMO HF should replace any old version with no questions regardless of how long ago they were purchased.

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

I have owned many Harbor Freight tools in the past 25 years. The Pittsburgh line has been very dependable and durable, and this kit continues the reputation with added high quality at a great price.

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

I own many Harbor freight tools, many well over 25 years old. Some items are "hit and miss",but the Pittsburgh line has always been reliable and this kit fits the bill for the weekend mechanic. It's priced very well and it's high quality impressed me,....plus it comes in a very nice carrying case!

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

Like everyone else has commented,this is a great tool.Just used it last night to put rotors and pads on a 2009 VW Routan. This tool provides the push and twist needed to get the piston to retract. Made the job very quick and easy.I did add a little light weight oil to the threads of the tool to make it turn a little smoother.Would definately buy again.

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

Quality construction, very complete set covering all caliper types. At first wondered why it had two T-handles, but the reason is that it includes one for calipers that require counter clockwise rotation as well as the more common clockwise rotation wind back. Either one could be used, but using the correct one won't require you to keep readjusting the thrust adjustment as you turn in the T-handle to rotate the piston. This is used for rear brake caliper pad replacement with the internal parking brake mechanism that extends the piston as it wears. If it's not retracted, the new pads won't fit.
After selecting the correct thrust bolt, take the backing plate and slide it over the T-handle side.
Select the correct spanner disk either by eye or from the chart lookup, and just place it on the driving end of the bolt. It's nicely set up with magnets to hold it in place and allows it to be easily interchanged.
It makes it so much easier performing the job than trying to do it with spanners or the bare socket tool, because it applies the thrust to push the piston inwards while simultaneously rotating it. Both actions must be done or the piston will not retract.
Minimizes the possibility of slipping and damaging the dust seal, as you could do with the bare tool, spanners, or screwdrivers.
It's so much easier with this tool it's worth getting even if used very infrequently, especially with some calipers being difficult to wind back in.

Comments about Pittsburgh Automotive 18 Piece Disc Brake Pad and Caliper Service Tool Kit:

you're an idiot to think its a kind of tool to come with instructions. you only buy this tool if you know how to do brakes and use this kind of tool! not to play with it and hope you did your brakes right. hey guys lets hope my car stops!