Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Brakes Spungy pedal

The caliper spring is there to keep the outer side of the caliper parallel with the piston so that the exerted pressure is distributed evenly acros the entirity of both pads.

Without it, the caliper can rock (because the metal caliper pis can deflect in the rubber bushings they sit in) when you depress the pedal, thus giving you that spongey feeling if it isn't installed correctly.

here is a thread about just the same thing you experienced from the Troubleshooting forum. Someone was kind enough to include a picture of how the spring clip should go.

Picture of caliper spring clip

The FAQ section on brakes is done so well and was spot on in this case. But if the photo or description of "the bow of the spring going below the bracket and not between bracket and caliper", was added it might be helpfull.

Alex
You are correct in that it would be wise to do one side at a time to get the parts on correctly. But if your taking the rotors off to get turned both sides are comming appart together.
Somehow I got things right my first brake replacement, but not this time. Also when you are taking the stuff apart, the spring looks pretty straight forward and nothing to look twice at. But apparently there are a few of us out there getting it wrong, to end up in the FAQ.

FYI: My first front pad replacement was at 80K, the second at 146K. I have yet to need rear shoe replacement. Just a warning that might be next!
Sav

OK, there we go, just was I was trying to get "out there." Thanks Stazi.

I have my clips on correctly (I checked the other side), and it didn't take me more than five minutes of finangling to do it.

So that means my brakes are giving me issues for other reasons. After trying the "turkey baster out some old fluid, pour in some new fluid," I am convinced that it is fluid-related, with a side of rotor glazing.

I will be servicing my braks when I pick the car up in a couple of weeks.

Rear brakes (drum) and bearings done, now rear struts/ springs to SVT's.