So I had a new front tire put on and at the same time decided to change the front pads and now there isn’t enough clearance!! Has anyone ever had to sand down the pads a little to make things fit? I pushed down the pistons, is there anything else that moves?

 

Open the bleeder valve on the caliper and then push the piston back, do not shave the pad!!!!!

 

what kind of pads did you get?

 

They are ebc, I wanted honda oem but both of the dealers near me don't stock them!! I will try opening the bleeders but I already have to pistons back, maybe they can go a litttle more.

 

hello jacobsdr...I have had loads of brake problems over the last few months..if you read any of my previous posts you will notice I said I was going to fit new EBC pads to my bike because the sintered ones I was using kept sticking to the discs if left for a few days....anyway I fitted my new pads after pushing the pistons all the way into the caliper bores and one side was so tight the wheel wouldn't spin....I thought taking it out for a quick ride would loosen things up....DONT DO THIS... my pads were smoking hot and my discs were turning blue with the heat.....my remedy was to sand a small amount from the pads as you mention in your post but I wouldnt do this unless you REALLY REALLY must....I sanded mine on a sanding belt at work and although I took my time to get them sanded absolutely flat....they weren't and my disc now has a shiney band where the pad is in contact and a rusty band where it isnt....I have bought some more discs from ebay and I will buy some more pads soon and if they need sanding I will seek help before doing it myself.....sorry my answer isnt more positive but I really think you should take care when sanding your pads. all the best......dave h

 

It's always a good idea when removing pads to put a thin block of wood, metal...something solid and slightly thicker than the discs themselves
in between the brake pistons and the body of the caliper.

This way, you don't push the pistons out too far.

You should not have to bleed the brakes to change brake pads.