I'm doing the front breaks on my 2000 Z28 and decided to paint the calipers. I have them off and I wanted to go about the best way.
I checked the "Sticky" section, but I couldn't find a tutorial.

They are VERY dirty, so they'll need to be cleaned.

I have wire brushes, but is there any special cleaning liquid that I should get?

Also, what parts should I be careful with when cleaning the calipers.

Thanks

Joel

 

Found a tutorial and informative tutorial.
https://ls1tech.com/forums/paint-bod...-calipers.html

 

I used a brake dust cleaner (aerosol can) when I did mine, you want to make sure they're almost a clean silver (mine were like charcoal!). I bought it at Pep Boys for about $8. Since you have them off it will make it very easy to paint them. Just take your time using light coats, also I recommend using a high temp clear coat, it will make them a lot easier to clean. I wish I would've taken the time to clear coat mine.

 

I'm going to be installing decals on the painted calipers. Is it better to install the decals shortly after painting the calipers for a stronger bond? I saw that quite a bit of people recommend this.

 

Just install the decals and then put a coat of clear over them. They won't be going anywhere and will hold up nicely.

 

I just finished painting my calipers last week. Pep Boys has the whole kit. There is plenty of paint for several coats. I painted mine with 3 coats, and did my 81 Z fronts only, and still have half a can of paint.

 

why don't you rebuild the calipers? its easy and cheap and then they'll look like the ones I did.

 

Clean them up with a wire wheel or a dremel, prime them, then paint them with high temp paint.

Most caliper painting kits are a joke. Especially the roll-on ones. Do it right the first time or you'll spend twice the time next time when the calipers look like **** in a few years and you've got to redo them.

 

All very good ideas!

As for the clear coat, I was looking for a high temp clear coat at Autozone and O'Reilly's, but they don't seem to have it in stock or even heard of it. Can I use regular clear coat?

 

They should have engine clear coat there. That's where I got mine

 

AutoZone doesn't carry it. Check out Pep Boys and look for VHT Engine Enamel, they should also have a clear coat there as well. VHT will be the best paint that holds up for pretty cheap.

 

Here's my progress so far....

 

Here is the finished product!

One big problem... There's break fluid leaking from the passenger caliper.. I'm not sure if it's the caliper or the Banjo Bolt. It seems to be that the bolt/washer are bad, but literally NOBODY carries these damn bolts! Looks like the car is going to be on stands until I can figure out what the hell is wrong... lol

 

I do believe those crush washers have to be replaced once removed on the caliper to prevent leaks... While looking for another one I HIGHLY suggest painting the rotor hat. I have the same rotors and they rust to hell after some time...