I'm trying to replace the rear pads on my 09 Ultra with ABS brakes but cannot get the caliper off. I hits the rim before the pads clear the rotor as I lift it up.

Also, are there different pads depending on if you have ABS or not? I have a set of pads p/n 41852-08.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

Those are the correct pads, but you should have gotten the 41852-08A as the A version includes the anti noise paste in the kit. HERE is a great write up from Howard. Just download the pdf file.

 

Thanks dawg. I downloaded the file and read it. I'm going to try it now

 

No need to remove the caliper to replace the pads....If you do want to remove it, remove the one pad pin just enough so the inboard pad drops out and then you have the clearance to remove the caliper from the rotor.

 

Remove the pin and pad retainer screw/bolt thing. Using a thin screw driver placed between the pad and the rotor and drive the pistons back. Then push out the pads. Unbolt the caliper. The caliper should now have enough "play" to twist and remove without hitting the rim.

lp

 

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Thanks for the help dawg, howard, HDV-GLIDE and lp.

I read the manual but it wasn't very clear to me. Using y'all's help it was very easy.

I'd be interested to know how to do it without removing the caliper. Some others may want to know also.

I'm going for a ride now to check it out.

Thanks again!

 

The caliper is a very snug fit on the disc. You think it wont come off.

To get it off you sometimes need to retract the pistons a little so that there is a bit of play between the pads and the discs. Use a large screwdriver to gently lever the caliper body away from the disc. This will withdraw the inboard pistons, creating enough play to get the caliper off the disc.

Worked for me last time I changed the wheels.

 

I replaced my pads when they only had a few hundred miles on them with Lyndel pads, so the pistons were not extended out much. Pulled the pin, removed both pads, installed the outboard pad, inserted pin so it would not fall out and then installed the inboard pad. If the pistons are extended out a lot, yes it pays to remove the caliper so you can get the pistons pushed back in. If that's the case, pull the pin out (make sure you remove the retainer clip first), let the pads drop out and then you have plenty of room to remove the caliper from the rotor without hitting the wheel.

 

OK-took it for a 80 mi ride and the brakes worked fine.

I was afraid of tearing something up. Y'alls help made it a breeze. Next time it will be a snap.

Those pads are pretty thin even new. When I pulled the old ones off they appeared to still have about 30% remaining, but with almost 20,000 miles on them and since they were already off it didn't make sense to leave them on.

Thanks for the great help y'all.