Opinion on tear in Caliper dust boot

[MaliceResistor]

Accidentally dropped this Caliper and noticed a tear in the boot. Do you guys think it is acceptable for install, repairable as it sits, or fatal and must be replaced?

Most kind

 

[Chryco Psycho]

Seal kits are inexpensive , push the piston out using fluid pressure , install a new boot & push the piston back in with a C clamp

 

[Challenger RTA]

It will work for now. To move it around and driving around until you get the a kit. That would be the time to do both. Not knowing if it was tore before. You don't know if the there is rust in there.

 

[MaliceResistor]

Seal kits are inexpensive , push the piston out using fluid pressure , install a new boot & push the piston back in with a C clamp

Thank you, the kits are stupid cheap on Rock Auto.

Thinking about it, would you be old enough to remember how auto parts stores used to use caliper pistons as ash trays on their counters? Ours did!!

 

[floyd]

I think the seal creates vacuum, which pulls the piston back into the caliper after you release the brakes. I’d replace it.

 

[moparleo]

It keeps dirt, water away from the piston and caliper cavity.
Actually the square piston O-ring retracts the piston slightly when brakes are released.
When you apply air or fluid to push piston out, put a piece of wood where the pads were to cushion the piston when it pops out. Keep your fingers out of there.

Disc brake pad retraction is primarily achieved by the elastic deformation of the rubber square-cut seal around the caliper piston, which pulls the piston back roughly 0.0001 inches when hydraulic pressure is released, creating a small, necessary clearance. This "roll back" mechanism prevents constant dragging, while also allowing the piston to slide forward to compensate for pad wear.

 

[Chryco Psycho]

I agree replace both seals while you are in there , clean the bore in the caliper & hey new brake fluid too .
Yes I remember the pistons sitting on counters !
You can use the caliper until new parts arrive .

 

[Xcudame]

While your're to, change to Dot 5 brake fluid if you haven't already!