Painting your brake calipers improves the look of your car especially if you have large open spoked alloy wheels. It’s an easy and inexpensive job to do yourself and will get you and your car noticed! You should allow plenty of time to do this job, preferably over a weekend so you don’t have to rush.
You will need
- Wheelbrace
- Axle stands
- Masking tape and newspaper
- Brake cleaner
- Steam cleaner (optional)
- High temp caliper paint (brush-on or aerosol)
When choosing your paint it’s worth noting that you can buy caliper paint kits which come with cleaning spray and brushes as well as a good quality brush on paint. Brush on paint makes this job a whole lot easier and gives a more professional looking result.
Step 1
Loosen the wheel nuts on the ground, then jack the car up being careful to use the correct jacking points to avoid damage to the cars sill. Place axle stands underneath to support the car- Never rely on the jack alone.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT attempt to loosen wheel nuts when the car is off the ground as it may fall off the axle stands!
Step 2
Once you have removed the wheel and the car is safely supported it’s time to clean the brake calipers. Use a steam cleaner or a brush & special brake cleaner available from an auto parts store. Make sure the caliper surfaces are as clean as possible to ensure good paint adhesion. It’s important that they are free of oil/ grease. Leave the calipers to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Step 3
If you are using an aerosol caliper paint then mask off the brake disc and any areas of ther cars bodywork that are likely to get overspray on them. This isn’t necessary with a brush on caliper paint; simply mask the brake disc area around the caliper itself and any hoses etc.
Step 4
Apply your first coat of paint using smooth strokes. If you are using an aersol applying several thin coats of paint is better than one thick coat. Build up the finish with 3-4 coats of paint (You will need to allow 10-15 mins between coats with a spray can). If using a brush on paint you may find one or two coats is sufficient- Follow the instructions for your brand of paint.
Step 5
Leave the caliper to dry for at least 30 mins before replacing the wheel. While you’re waiting why not give your wheel rim as good clean on the inside before putting it back on.
Step 6
Replace the wheel and tighten the wheel nuts up gently. Final tightening to torque should always be done on the ground for safety reasons.
Video
The Mighty Car Mods team show you how to paint your cars brake calipers to improve the appearance of your mighty ride
Image: Flickr user Supermac1961
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