Worn Caliper Slide Pins?
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Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 59
Likes: 26
From: LI, NY
Worn Caliper Slide Pins?
I just picked up a really nice 1994 C4 with 121k miles. Looks to be in great shape. Driving it around a bit after picking it up, I felt a little clunking from the front left. Driving it for a little more, I noticed it also happens when I step on the brake. So naturally, it's something with the caliper. I get home, pop the hood, and sure enough the caliper has a wiggle. The mount is tight, but the caliper moves. I'm thinking the slide pins are worn. Does that sound right? What's involved in replacing them?
EDIT: Apparently the video was uploaded as a youtube "short" and that's probably why it won't embed. But here's the link: https://youtu.be/A_lh0SSCN9k
EDIT: Apparently the video was uploaded as a youtube "short" and that's probably why it won't embed. But here's the link: https://youtu.be/A_lh0SSCN9k
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 1,384
Likes: 339
From: Simi Valley CA
The calipers don't use slide pins like other cars. The pins just hold the calipers in place. The C4 pins are just held on by a c clip where cars with slide pins use a special bolt that is smooth with only a small portion of the bolt threaded. Those designs have that smooth slide pin go into a rubber plunger that the C4s don't have. Sounds like you have a bad caliper that is not holding pressure. Or maybe they just wiggle by design.
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2022
Posts: 1,475
Likes: 393
From: Liberty, SC
2023 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
If theyre the same as an 88, there is a spring/clip that keeps some tension on the pads. Mine were missing and i didnt know they were supposed to be there. But they let the pads move a bit when i tapped the brakes. Those wouldnt let the caliper move but the pads can. Make sure you have those.
Last edited by 2011KLR; Jun 19, 2023 at 07:24 AM. Reason: Fat fingers
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 786
Likes: 31
Cruise-In II Veteran
I think 2011KLR has the answer. The little "S" shaped anti-rattle clips that slip on the pads sometimes break off or more likely, the installer neglected to put them on. They usually come with the replacement pads. I haven't looked for them in over twenty years but maybe they are available in the aftermarket.
If they are not installed there is going to be a lot of noise!
If they are not installed there is going to be a lot of noise!
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