Another brake question

[njoconnor]

I[ve had the car on jackstands for about 2 months while completing e-brake, exhaust, and some other under-car tasks. While doing a wlak around, I found that the R front tire/wheel was very difficult to move, indicating that the pads were sticking (at best). Brakes/system re-done by the PO andhis mechanic in early 2011, and car's maybe gone 300 miles since. Any tips on diagnosing and correcting a single sticking caliper (if that's what it is)? I'm VERY inexperienced when it comes to brakes, so simple monosyllabic instructions GREATLY appreciated!

Thanks

Neil

[4uall]

This helped me a lot when taking mine apart

http://wwwe.fiatspider.com/f08/viewtopi ... lit=brakes

http://wwwe.fiatspider.com/f08/viewtopi ... lit=brakes

here is a good video for brakes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FbX9AU3Jz0

[ClarkTheShark]

I can give you some simple tips for diagnosing a stuck front caliper:

It can really only be two things.

1. clogged front hose that wont allow fluid to retract back into the MC.

2. the actual piston in the caliper is misaligned or out of whack. This requires you to disassemble the front caliper and do some inspection. Just pray you never have to mess with the rear brakes.

Also, as a general tip for Fiat brakes, The caliper wedges should also be clean and lubricated.

[SoFlaFiat]

Neil, put it on the ground, drive in around the block, jack that side back up and check again...
Sometimes they are just hung up from sitting and need a bump.
How's that for simple?

[njoconnor]

Thanks, all! I really do need to get better with brakes. My 71 coupe used to do the same thing with the same wheel....only when driving in snow! I have the tire off so I can clean out the wiring under the right fender, so I'll take a good look at the calipers and hose before taking anything apart. I'll also try Allen's idea.....but that may take a couple of weeks until the car is closer to "drivable" (getting there slowly).

Neil