My first time doing brakes. 1000f 1987. Removed front right pads ok. Replaced with new ones but only one will fit: not enough space to fit another.

Tried left side front, removed entire caliper ok, similar problem as above: I can fit both pads on but no space at all between them so I cannot put the caliper back on the bike.

thanx for any tips.

 

You've got to push the pistons back into the caliper to make room. You can use a set of expandable pliers to squeeze them back into the calipers.

 

Pacojoseph is right, the pistons need to be pressed back into the calliper. Be careful though. Over time, as the pads wear, the pistons move further and further out. Brake fluid is behind it, and it came from the master cylinder. If you've added fluid to the master cylinder over time, then when you push the pistons back in the fluid will go back up into the master cylinder resovoir. It is possible to overflow and leak.

The best option would be to attach a small hose to the bleeder valve on the calliper, put the otherend into a can or jar. Then as you press the pistons back in, open the bleeder valve to allow the fluid to go into the can. Naturally you want to be careful that you don't allow air to go back inside the calliper. Make sure you close the bleeder valve as soon as you stop pressing on the piston. You should flush the system with new fluid at this time as well. Adding new brake fluid to the master cylinder as you pump it out the bleeder until it runs clear as opposed to a dirty brown.

 

a six inch c-clamp is your best freind when doing brakes!!