Motorcycle VFR 800 Caliper Mounting Boot Seal

[Ottocle]

I have been replacing my brake pads on my 2001 Honda VFR 800. When attempting to remove the front right caliber I mistakingly removed the Mounting Boot Seal. How important is this part in ensuring the brakes function correctly? Can I replace it?

[kramdra]

Has it split or damaged? if not theres no reason it cant be reused. Yes it is very important, it keeps road dirt out of the sliding pins.

[Ottocle]

I damaged it when trying to put it back on. I've ordered another but am not sure how to install it properly (hence the original damage). Any advice about installation?

[bamt]

A smear of red grease on the outside helps it slip through the hole in the caliper. I've found it easier to put the open end through first - squish it down so it fits into the hole, and you can probably grasp it from the other side to pull it through. The closed end doesn't go through as easily (in my experience, everyone else will probably say I do it wrong!).
Whilst it's out, make sure the hole in the caliper is clear of corrosion - this can build up and close up this seal a bit so that the caliper doesn't slide as easily as it should.

[stinkwheel]

David silver sell them. They are £3.75 each. New ones are very easy to fit.
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

[Vincent]

[stinkwheel]

And in this example, also reduces the internal diameter of the hole in the alloy casting to closer match the external diameter of the pin.

Missing it out is not an option, the pin would (literally) rattle about in the hole.
____________________
“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.