How to Use Brake Spring Pliers

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Though many automobile enthusiasts like to do repair and maintenance work on their own vehicles, it can be difficult without having the proper tools. A common vehicle repair task like changing components of the brakes of a vehicle, such as drums, pads and rotors, can be done with regular wrenches and screwdrivers. However, it is a much easier task if you have a pair of brake spring pliers. Brake spring pliers are made specially for automobile brake work and consist of two useful ends. The tong end helps to install springs while the handle end can be used to stretch small springs to connect the components of vehicle breaks. This useful tool is inexpensive and a must-have for do-it-yourself mechanics. Learning how to use brake spring pliers can make your brake repair jobs easier and faster to complete.

Steps

1. 1
   Purchase a quality pair of brake spring pliers at your local automobile supply store.

   
   
2. 2
   Prepare your automobile for brake work by lifting it with a hydraulic jack.
3. 3
   Use the necessary tools like a wrench and screwdriver to remove hubcaps from your automobile, if it has them.
4. 4
   Remove the wheel of the first brake that you will be working on to expose the brake components.
5. 5
   Use your brake spring pliers to remove, replace, stretch and install the necessary springs in your braking system. Use your other tools as necessary for your particular vehicle's braking parts.
6. 6
   Put the parts back together, and replace the wheel.
7. 7
   Repeat the process on the other wheels.
8. 8
   Take your automobile off the hydraulic jack very carefully.
9. 9
   Clean your brake spring pliers of oil, dirt and grime so they will be ready for the next job.

   
   

Tips

• Always grip your brake spring pliers firmly when using them on your vehicle's braking parts. Some of them can be difficult to remove, or small and tedious to replace, so it takes a firm hand for the job.
• Always be sure to thoroughly clean your brake spring pliers after each job to keep them free of rust and dirt. Dirty, oil-covered tools can be hard to grip and make the brake repair job more difficult to complete.
• Brake spring pliers are inexpensive, so it is best to spend a little extra to invest in a quality pair. They will range from around $15 to $25 for a good pair and will last for many brake jobs if they are well-made and sturdy.
• Investing in a good pair of brake spring pliers is worth the expense, because doing brake jobs yourself will save a lot of money from the cost of garage repairs.

Warnings

• Do not attempt to use brake spring pliers if you are not sure how to operate them correctly. Talk to the staff at your local auto arts store for tips and advice on proper usage.
• Do not use brake spring pliers if your automobile's parts are hot from driving it. This can result in burns. Wait until your automobile cools down before attempting to work on the braking system with brake spring pliers.
• Do know use a hydraulic jack without having someone around to help. You could get hurt if the automobile falls off the jack.

Things You'll Need

• Automobile
• Brake spring pliers
• Hydraulic jack
• Other necessary tools, such as wrenches and screwdrivers

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