First brake pad change

[CyrilSwan]

So I set about changing the front brake pads today. I've never done it before so consulted my Haynes manual.

The new pads are a lot thicker than the old ones (obviously) and they won't fit in the caliper. Is this normal? Do I need to remove the caliper and readjust something so that they fit?

The bike is a Honda CBF 125 and these are the pads ordered:
https://www.brakes4u.co.uk/itemdetail.asp?catID=18236

Any help/advice is appreciated.
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Current: Honda 2015 MSX125.
Previous: Honda 2012 CBF125.

[Dave M]

If not done already push pistons in as far as you can and try again!

[_Iain_]

Remove old pads, pump pistons out a bit, clean them up with some wet & dry or wire wool, smear of rubber grease round em & push back in all the way. Wipe off excess rubber grease, smear of copper grease down the backs of the new pads & on any sliders/removable pins, new pads in & back on the bike.

Trying to force the pistons back in whilst covered in crap will more than likely bugger up the dust seals & cause long term issues.

Oh, protip - test the brakes before you take it on the road by pushing the bike & trying em. It'll hurt if they dont work.
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Please be aware that the above post may be full of complete nonsense.
Riding: '07 KTM Duke II, Baotian BT49QT-20 Driving: '88 Volvo 340

[CyrilSwan]

Thanks. Assuming I need to remove the caliper to pump and clean the pistons. This is what I didn't want to do today because of lack of time and the haynes manual mentioned needing to possible bleed the brakes I think (don't have the tools for that job)!

Will take another look tomorrow.
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Current: Honda 2015 MSX125.
Previous: Honda 2012 CBF125.

[Fizzer Thou]

If you push the pistons back into the caliper body you will need to watch the oil level in the master cylinder as the level will rise as you displace the pistons.

If you are replacing the pads it may well be an idea to bleed the brake afterwards.Brake fluid is only about £5 for a 500ml bottle.

For bleeding the brake I use a large jar with a hole punched in the lid and a suitable length of clear pipe from B&Q.Immerse the loose end of the pipe within the jar and together with typically an 8mm ring spanner,bleed away.Once the fluid changes to the same colour as the new fluid,check that there are no bubbles appearing near the bleed nipple and you are done.DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN THE BLEED NIPPLE as they can shear off all too easily.
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Just talk bikes.What else is there?

Always have a 'Plan B'

[skatefreak]