scottonfire

So I couldn't figure out how to use the disc brake pad spreader so I used a crowbar to push the pistons in before inserting the new rear brake pads. I compressed the pistons enough to get the new pads in. Then I pumped the brakes. Am I all good or do I have to go back and make sure the pistons are compressed completely to be flush with the caliper???
Thx,

BigN8

Should be fine.
The pistons DO NOT have to completely compress. If the new pads are in then all should be good.

Does the peddle feel firm???

scottonfire

I don't know. I didn't want to test them on the road in case someone here thinks I should do something else before driving.

So I guess when you press the brake pedal the pistons squeeze the brake pads and hold them in place, yes?

glocati

As long as you got the retaining clip back in, the pads should be good to go. The caliper pistons will compress the pads on to the rotor(s) when you depress your brake pedal.

Basically, start the car, depress the brake pedal till it is firm, release and repeat a few times and you are good to go. Pedal should firm right up. Double check the fluid level in you brake reservoir and make sure cap is tight and go enjoy that new stopping power.

C230 Sport Coup

Only thing I'll add is hopefully you monitored the fluid level when you pushed the calipers back in and made sure it didn't spill all over the place.
But as everyone said, yes, just pump the pedal a few times till firm and you are good to go.
Just did my gf's ML rear brakes a couple days ago. Man, they were metal on metal.
They feel so nice now, and with the Akebono pads, likely last rear brakes she'll ever need.

bop11

Make sure you only use short strokes of the brake pedal when first moving the pistons out. If you push the pedal down too far you have the danger of throwing the brake circuit light on. If that happens you must bleed the opposite brake circuit. This is the switch that activates should one of the brake hydraulic lines rupture. It works if there is unequal pressure on the two circuits. When you install the pads there is some space between the piston and the pad. You use short pushes on the brake pedal to take up this space. Since it only takes a little force to move the piston, the switch thinks the line is broken and if you press the pedal down too far it will throw the switch. So, take short slow strokes to bring the pistons to the pads. You know when they are there because the pedal gets hard.