Technical Rear Brake Calipers (Handbrake Cable Removal)

[Neojames2k]

Hi, I'm trying to remove the rear brake calipers for an overhaul, I have new braided hoses so cutting the old ones to get that part off isn't a problem, but I can't work out how to remove the handbrake cable, if any one could give me any advice on how to do this it would be really helpful

Cheers
Neojames2k

 

[RS Pilot]

The easiest way is by slackening the cable right off first. Follow the cables to the centre of the car and you'll see a little access hole underneath where they both join onto a plate/bar. Slacken off the two adjusting nuts on the threaded rod until you have enough free play in the cable to release it from the caliper.

When you tighten the adjusting nuts back up remember the handbrake system needs enough slack for the arms on the calipers to move fully out. If you don't do this, the self adjusters won't work so neither will your hand brake.

Some bright spark at a car dealer over did the hand brake adjustment on an Uno turbo I bought from them meaning only one side worked. I have no idea how it got through it's test like this (it came with 12 months MoT) - I suspect it was a mail order MoT!

 

[froth]

How do you overhaul your calipers? I was under the impression that parts for X1/9 rear calipers were impossible to obtain. If I'm wrong tell me 'cause I need to do mine.
Chris

 

[VanHine]

Actually you can get both parts, remaned calipers and new calipers for both the front and the back. I know this because I can get them here in the U.S. and the X1/9 is much less popular here.

P.S. Those cables are a bitch to get off, be ready for some work and a few choice words.

If you can afford it or the your calipers are in bad shape go for the remaned or new, cause those damn rear calipers are an assload of work if you don't have the correct tools.

A C-clamp or large jawed visegrips and compressed air are alot of help.

 

[RS Pilot]

If you replace your rear calipers, get the bigger piston type from Alternative Auto's. This will stop your front's locking up in the wet.