Brake piston spreader--my modified design

I know there are several brake piston spreader options, but here's what I came up with.
First, I ordered one of these--yes, I know, its a Corvette site, so don't flame me. ;D
http://www.mamotorworks.com/corvette-brake-caliper-piston-spreader-and-compressor-tool-1-66-7794.html
It does a great job on 2 pistons, but we all know that pushing one pair back sometimes causes the other pair to push out.
So I modified it into a 4-piston design.
I bought an 1/8" x 1 1/4" piece of strap iron, cut pieces 2" long, and welded them to the sides.
I welded on the inside so the outside that pushes the piston is smooth.
Sandblasting and paint makes it look pretty good.
To use, slide it into the caliper, and gently turn the handle until pistons are set back far enough to get replacement pads installed.

 

[VoodooBoss]

Nice work. Gary suggested this one from FTB Racing and it's simple and effective. Scroll to the bottom. Don't be surprised if Scott moves this to the tech section.

http://fulltiltboogieracing.com/s197_brakes.htm

 

[drano38]

Rick,
Yep, lots of good tools for us out there. The FTB bar takes up a lot less room in the tool box, thats for sure!
I like this mod since it moves all 4 pistons at once, so I don't have to push them multiple times to get them reset.
If tool box space is at a premium, FTB is a great choice. If not, and we have access to a welder, my mod is another consideration.

 

[CaliMR]

I've seen one that was like a pliers, but as you squeeze it pushes two plates apart. It seemed like a pretty good design but I haven't been able to find it.

 

[ArizonaBOSS]

Nice work. Gary suggested this one from FTB Racing and it's simple and effective. Scroll to the bottom. Don't be surprised if Scott moves this to the tech section.

http://fulltiltboogieracing.com/s197_brakes.htm

http://fulltiltboogieracing.com/images/brake%20tool%20FT%209000.jpg[/ig]
[/quote]

I have this one as well; effective and inexpensive!

 

[drano38]

I've seen one that was like a pliers, but as you squeeze it pushes two plates apart. It seemed like a pretty good design but I haven't been able to find it.

This one?
http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-29100-Quick-Quad-Spreader/dp/B005GLQCKA/ref=pd_sbs_auto_1

 

[Zoldier]

I've had this one for a few years. Works great but a bit more expensive.

http://store.zeckhausen.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=228&products_id=474

 

[captdistraction]

I've never had a problem with the old pads and a screwdriver. just a bit of finesse and that's all it ever takes. Though I haven't pushed my brakes enough to melt boots/seals etc where it could become more difficult to retract the pistons.