What kind of grease to lubricate the caliper guide pins. How to lubricate calipers, brake lubrication requirements

What kind of grease to lubricate the caliper guide pins. How to lubricate calipers, brake lubrication requirements

Service of the brake system of the car includes the following operations:

  1. Replacing pads and discs
  2. Cleaning and lubricating brake calipers
  3. Checking and replacing the brake fluid
  4. Treatment of adjacent surfaces with non-stick compounds, protection of brake hoses.

Preparations used in the maintenance of brake mechanisms:

  1. Schnell Reiniger quick cleaner, article 1900 .
  2. Brake fluid Bremsenflussigkeit DOT4, article 8834. 8832, 3098, 8836
  3. Silicone spray Silicon-Spray, article 3955 (7567) .
  4. Aluminum spray Aluminum-Spray, article 7533 (7560) .
  5. Copper paste Kupfer-Paste, article 7579, copper spray 3970, 3969
  6. Synthetic lubricant for the brake system, Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Spray spray, article 3079, 7573. Paste - Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste, article 7585, 3077.
  7. Rust remover with molybdenum MoS2-Rostloser, article 1986
  8. anti-squeak paste for Anti-Quietsch-Paste guides, article 7656.

Checking the thickness of the brake pads and the condition of the caliper pistons is necessary at every vehicle maintenance. Replacement of the pads is necessary when it is obvious that the brake pads of the pads have worn out more than critical, until the next service.

Replacing disks: when the thickness of the working surface of the disk is less than the permissible one (measured with a caliper), with a critical runout (see the instructions for the car), the runout is measured with an indicator stand. And also in the presence of severe corrosion, cracks and other damage. The replacement of brake discs is carried out only in pairs, both on the same axle of the car with the simultaneous replacement of brake pads (regardless of their condition).

Checking the condition of the brake fluid: performed at every maintenance, but at least once a year. Replacement criteria: fluid life (see vehicle manual), sudden change in fluid color (ex: darkening and turbidity), fluid boiling point less than 165 °C. Synthetic brake fluids tend to absorb water during use, resulting in a lower boiling point. The boiling point of a liquid can be measured directly or by a relative indicator - electrical conductivity. The simplest and easiest way is to measure by electrical conductivity. The tester has three indicators. If, when the electrodes are immersed in the brake fluid in the tank, the green indicator lights up, then everything is in order, the brake fluid is fresh. If yellow, then the moisture content is within 1-1.5% and further operation is possible. If red is on, then the moisture content is limiting - about 3% and the fluid should be replaced as soon as possible.

Pad replacement procedure: All caliper designs require spraying MoS2-Rostloser Part No. 1986 Moly Rust Remover on fasteners and brake pad seats for ease of work. On the "floating" caliper, unscrew the lower bolt that secures the brake cylinder to the bracket. Fold the caliper up and secure in this position for the suspension parts. For fixing it is convenient to use a wire hook. Remove the old pads from the guide grooves. Remove the caliper guide pins from their sockets. Clean the pad seats with a wire brush and spray on the remaining dirt Schnell Reiniger Quick Cleaner, article 1900. Remove old grease from the caliper guide pins and their seats and completely degrease with a quick cleaner. Dry the parts.

Drown the pistons of the brake cylinders (it is convenient to use a clamp if there is no special tool). In case of sticking or excessive force in the movement of the pistons, remove the rubber anthers of the cylinders, remove dirt and spray Silicon-Spray, article 3955 (7567), under the anther. “Swing” the caliper piston, successively squeezing it out of the cylinder with the brake pedal and pushing it back with a clamp. Check the ease of movement of the piston and re-spray silicone spray under the boot. Put the duster back on. If it is impossible to restore the operation of the brake cylinder, replace it or repair it with obligatory polishing (or replacement) of the piston and replacing the brake cuff with boot.

Assembly: before installing the brake pads, lubricate their guide (in contact with the pads) surfaces on the caliper with synthetic lubricant for the brake system, Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Spray spray, article 3079. The back sides of the pads and the surfaces of the anti-squeak plates (if they are included in the package). Lubricate the caliper guide pins and their boots with Anti-Quietsch-Paste, part number 7656. Avoid overcoating.

Install the parts in place, assemble the caliper. Before tightening the mounting bolts, it is recommended to lubricate the threads with a choice of aluminum spray, copper paste or synthetic brake lubricant. After assembly, be sure to clean the disc from traces of used compounds and from preservation grease, use Schnell Reiniger Quick Cleaner, article 1900.

The sequence of actions when working with opposed calipers is the same. Difficulties can only arise when removing the pads, therefore it is necessary to use MoS2-Rostloser Rust Remover with Molybdenum, article 1986. Lubricate the springs and fixing pins of the pads before installation with your choice of aluminum spray, copper paste or synthetic brake lubricant.

Attention: when working with vehicles equipped with the ABC system, handle the ABC sensors and their connectors with care. Be sure to clean the comb from which the sensor reads the wheel speed signal.

Replacing brake discs: To replace a brake disc, spray MoS2-Rostloser Part No. 1986 Rust Remover with Molybdenum on the mating surfaces of the disc and hub, in the holes for the studs or bolts. Completely remove the caliper, unscrew the disc mounting screws (if any). Sometimes, for example on Mercedes and Toyota SUVs, you have to remove the disc together with the hub and later separate the disc from the hub using a press. Before installing a new disc, clean the mating surfaces with Schnell Reiniger Quick Cleaner, Part No. 1900, dry and apply a separating lubricant, a choice of aluminum spray, copper paste or synthetic brake lubricant. With the same compositions, it is necessary to process the wheel fasteners and its surfaces adjacent to the hub.

Any "extra" sound coming from the front suspension will definitely alert an experienced motorist. A worn bearing, a loose ball joint or a spinning wheel can lead to loss of control and even cause an accident. However, of the many knocks that undercarriage parts can make, the sound emitted by brake calipers - or rather, their brackets and guides, stands out in particular. Today we will fight him.

This unpleasant and loud defect is known firsthand to many drivers, and it causes a completely different reaction. Most often, the owner prefers "not to interfere with the car's work" - after all, it's the easiest way, and the "sound" does not particularly affect the operation of the braking system itself. However, there are many meticulous motorists who struggle with sound in various ways - for example, lubricating the guides and even refining them.

What to lubricate

It would seem, what could be easier than lubricating the caliper guides? Many owners do just that - during the next “bulkhead” of the brake system, they take and lubricate their fingers with whatever comes to hand. As a rule, lithol and its derivatives, as well as graphite, are in the garage assortment. More advanced ones are puzzled by the search for a specialized composition designed specifically for use in the nodes of the brake system.

And now - a surprise: in most cases, both of them are doing it wrong! Yes, the caliper guide pins do need to be lubricated, but by no means with what is usually considered a suitable lubricant, even if it is positioned that way in an auto shop.

Car manufacturers produce guide lubricants under their own brands.

Here is a list of original OEM lubricants from some automakers with part numbers:

  • BMW 81 22 9 407 103, 83 23 0 305 690;
  • FORD/Motorcraft D7AZ-19A331-A, XG-3-A;
  • Volkswagen/Audi G 052 150 A2;
  • LAND ROVER RTC7603, SYL500010;
  • HONDA 08C30-B0224M, 08798-9027;
  • MAZDA 0000-77-XG3A;
  • NISSAN 999MP-AB002;
  • SUZUKI 99000-25100;
  • TOYOTA 08887-80609;
  • CHRYSLER/Mopar J8993704;
  • Volvo 1161325-4.

There are also lubricants that are produced by manufacturers of auto components and "chemistry" under their own brands:

  • ACDelco 89021537 (10-4022);
  • Federal Mogul F132005;
  • FTE Automotive W0109;
  • Stahlgruber 223 1712, 223 1729;
  • TRW Automotive PFG110.

Such different lubricants

Unfortunately, in the vast majority of cases, car dealerships (both online and offline) will usually offer “wrong” - that is, anti-creak grease, which simply cannot be used in guides!

The fact is that copper and ceramic anti-creak pastes are designed to be applied to the back of the pads and mating elements of brake calipers, but they are not suitable for “guides” for several reasons. Firstly, after lubrication with grease, lithol, "graphite" and other lubricants based on mineral oils, the rubber anthers of the fingers almost always swell, stop sticking to the fingers and, in fact, simply cease to perform their function.

Secondly, only special greases based on synthetic oils and a thickener are suitable for lubricating guides. Due to this, the lubricant becomes refractory and does not “drain” from the guides after heating, and also does not coke over time from exposure to water and high temperatures. High-quality specialized lubricants hold up to + 300С without any problems, but at the same time they are non-aggressive to seals. At the same time, such lubricants not only do not melt, but also do not dissolve in water, alkalis, dilute acids, brake fluid, as well as methanol and ethanol.

The use of the wrong lubricant in practice can lead to the opposite effect - that is, the lubricated guide pins turn sour in the caliper, due to which the floating bracket loses its mobility, and the pads begin to wedge and overheat.

On thematic forums, hundreds of pages are devoted to choosing the “right” lubricant for guides, but at the same time, the theoretical calculations and practical reviews given often contradict each other, which leads to even more confusion.

One of the most common universal lubricants is the American Slipkote 220-R DBC, although its price is somewhat “biting” - they ask for about a thousand rubles for an 85-gram tube! Slipkote lube is also available in "disposable" 10-gram sachets, which are noticeably cheaper.

In car dealerships, often under the guise of a suitable composition for guide pins, they offer a fairly common grease Liqui Moly Bremsen Anti-Quietsch-Paste (art. 7573, 3077, 3079, 3074) in gray-blue color, but the manufacturer himself is currently positioning it as an anti-creak paste and It is not recommended to use for lubrication of guides and bookmarks in anthers. It contains a ceramic filler that has heat resistance up to 1200C, while the synthetic base can thermally degrade much earlier.

In the production line of this German manufacturer there is a suitable Anti-Quietsch-Paste (art. 7656) in red, which does not affect rubber and plastic elements, but at the same time withstands heating up to +250C.

The VAZ car repair manual prescribed the use of UNIOL-1 waterproof grease, made on the basis of petroleum oils, to lubricate the guides. As a rule, in our time it is almost impossible to find it on sale, but it is quite possible to find an analogue-substitute - CIATIM-221 calcium grease. It is produced in accordance with GOST 9433-80 and is intended for the lubrication of various rolling bearings. There is also a fluorinated version of CIATIM-221F, which, thanks to the use of ultrafine polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), provides improved extreme pressure and antiwear properties. CIATIM-221 is inert to polymers and rubber, and also provides a temperature range from -60C to +150C, while maintaining short-term heating up to 200C, which makes it suitable for use on most "low-speed" cars like front-wheel drive Lads, but there are a few "buts".

Firstly, the dropping point of CIATIM-221 according to GOST 6793-74 is about 200 degrees - that is, in many cases, with the active use of the brakes, it can melt and leak out, so it can hardly replace the “branded” foreign-made lubricants prescribed for applications on modern foreign cars.

Secondly, CIATIM-221 is very expensive and is usually found only in large containers, while just a few grams are enough to lubricate the guides. That is why lubricant manufacturers usually sell them in small bags - but, as you already understood, it is important not to confuse anti-squeak lubricant for brake system components with the “same” product for guides.

Lubrication of the guides does not always solve the problem of knocking - as a rule, when working out in the holes of the caliper brackets during the ride, the parts still move, which leads to extraneous sounds.

Lubricate or replace?

For some cars, you can purchase caliper repair kits, which include anthers, pins and fasteners. True, often the guides are made by no one knows who and from what - that is, from "raw" metal, and the geometric dimensions are not always maintained correctly. Some mechanics manage not to change fingers, but, without further ado, simply ... rivet them with a hammer! After that, the guides can simply jam in the caliper ...


This is what the finger looks like after being “repaired” with a hammer.

Many car owners have encountered the fact that the calipers began to rattle even during the warranty period. Contacting an authorized dealer often ended with the replacement of complete assemblies, since not all manufacturers produce individual brake caliper parts as spare parts. At the same time, for Russian VAZs and some foreign-made cars, both clamps, and "palms", and brake cylinders can be purchased separately, and factory-made!

In short, in each case, you need to "study the issue" before taking on a tube of grease and wrenches. After all, there is no single method for solving the problem of brake caliper knocking - sometimes it is enough just to lubricate the fingers, and there are situations when the problem can be solved only by replacing parts of the brake system.

How to lubricate

Now that you know how to properly lubricate the caliper guide pins, it remains to answer the question of how to do it. As we have already noticed, in addition to lubrication, it is worth stocking up with a repair kit or at least rubber anthers, since these parts often turn out to be damaged.

The lubrication of the guides itself is usually not difficult, and this procedure is best performed at every intervention in the brake system - for example, when replacing pads or discs.

And, of course, you need to lubricate the guides if that very loud sound arose, with which the conversation began.

Individual repairmen are not limited to lubrication and go further, modifying fingers with available methods. For example, it can be a groove of fingers, followed by the application of some kind of polymer coating. However, it is unlikely that such a method can be approved by brake or car manufacturers, and the police do not at all welcome any intervention in the brake system. After all, no one knows how a handicraft finger will behave in reality ...

Brake calipers are an important structural element in the car, which ensures the safety of movement. It is necessary to regularly monitor the condition of this unit and carry out its quality maintenance. To do this, it is important to know what kind of lubricant to use for guide calipers.

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Conditions for use of calipers

Disc brake calipers function in difficult conditions of use. They are affected by critically high temperatures, reaching 600 degrees. Especially in situations of sudden braking or when moving along mountain serpentines.

As a result of further heat removal and cooling of the elements, the temperature can be reduced to 180 degrees. Brake calipers (ST) work in conditions of exposure to water, pollution, as well as reagents that road services sprinkle on roads during the cold season. If the piston o-rings wear out during operation of the car, brake fluid may also enter the lubrication system of the calipers. In order to prevent a malfunction in the functioning of the unit, it is necessary to use special lubricants.

Treatment of guide calipers with grease

Requirements for lubrication

Below is a list of brake caliper lubrication requirements:

  1. The lubricant that is used for CT and other mechanisms should not aggressively affect plastic and rubber elements, as well as elastomers. This can lead to their destruction.
  2. If you decide to lubricate the calipers with a new product, then you need to be sure that it is resistant to water, brake fluid and other aggressive compounds. Their contact with the lubricant can lead to its dissolution and washing out of the system.
  3. The tool must be resistant to work at elevated temperatures - from 180 degrees and more. If the lubricant does not have this property, during operation it will melt and come out of the nodes.
  4. A high-quality substance will be able to work without problems at critically low temperatures. It is desirable that the product does not lose its properties in frost down to -50 degrees and is able to maintain its original characteristics in such a cold.

Lubricants such as Litol, Nigrol or graphite paste are not suitable for machining parts, as they cannot withstand the aggressive conditions in which the calipers operate. These products quickly dissolve and coke, which negatively affects the anthers. As a result, the use of lubricants that are not intended for calipers can lead to jamming of the cylinder pistons and guides. This is fraught with brake failure.

The Garage TV channel provided a video that details how the elements of the brake system are lubricated.

Types of lubricants

Now we will analyze the types of heat-resistant, high-temperature and silicone lubricants.

Synthetic or mineral pastes with added metals

Such substances are included in the group of heat-resistant extreme pressure agents. Aluminum lubricants operate in a wide temperature range, which, depending on the manufacturer, can vary from -185 to +1000 degrees. The basis of the product is a mineral or synthetic base. Manufacturers add thickeners to the composition, as well as particles of molybdenum or copper.

The group of synthetic or mineral products includes the following subspecies:

  • complex, which are based on copper, graphite and aluminum, as well as thickening substances;
  • copper, consisting of graphite and copper powder;
  • metal-free ceramic products, they use ceramics, as well as magnesium silicate;
  • lubricants developed on the basis of molybdenum or copper disulfide.

Mineral oil based pastes

Many car owners choose refractory products based on mineral oil. The basis of the substances is bentonite, which is used as a thickener. Manufacturers add fatty acids and metal particles to the composition. The main advantage of such tools is the possibility of stable operation at temperatures from -45 to +180 degrees. Their use is allowed in machines that are operated in gentle conditions.

User Vyacheslav Ivanov in his video conducted an experiment on the use of two popular types of lubricants for brake systems.

Synthetic oil pastes

This type of lubricant for guide calipers is considered the most common and versatile. It can be used not only for ST, but also for other components of the vehicle's braking system. When developing the lubricant, a refined synthetic base and a complex of additives are used. Thanks to additives, the substances become resistant to oxidation, corrosion and provide anti-wear properties to parts. The composition also contains thickening substances.

Synthetic-based lubricants are characterized by positive properties.

They do not dissolve in brake fluid or water, nor in acidic and alkaline formulations. Lubricants do not evaporate and have dielectric characteristics. A tool for processing guide calipers on a synthetic basis is able to successfully perform its functions in the temperature range from -40 to +300 degrees. Car owners can use these substances for rolling, sliding and other elements that operate at elevated temperatures and high pressures.

User John KroN in his video demonstrated how the procedure for processing guide calipers is carried out using the example of a Toyota Corolla car.

Overview of lubricants for calipers and guides

Consider a list of lubricants based on silicone and other elements that, according to consumer reviews, are considered the best.

So, what kind of lubricant to use for guide calipers:

Molykote CU-7439

Molikot is made in the USA on the basis of copper powder and a semi-synthetic base. Many car owners choose this particular lubricant to process caliper guides. It effectively performs its functions at temperatures from -30°C to +600°C, resistant to high pressure. Also, this product is not washed off under the influence of moisture and does not dissolve, it is characterized by low volatility.


Practice has shown that Molikot effectively protects parts of the brake system from the effects of rust, sticking and souring. This tool has received approval for use from manufacturers Nissan, Subaru, Honda and Land Rover.

MS-1600

Russian made product. Grease belongs to the category of high-temperature and universal. The product works effectively in the range from -50°C to +1000°C. In practice, this lubricant functions well under the negative effects of aggressive reagents, acidic and alkaline compounds, as well as liquids. With regular use, the product does not destroy rubber seals and plastic elements of the car's brake system.


One of the main features is considered to be non-stick characteristics, and the lubricant is also resistant to corrosion. The manufacturer recommends using this product on the sides of brake pads, non-working surfaces, and pistons and guides. The lubricant does not interact with brake fluids of the DOT 3 group, but its use is not allowed if the DOT 5 “brake fluid” is filled in the car.

XADO VeryLube in the form of a spray

This tool is considered a more budget option. Its use helps prevent jamming of the pads. It is supplied to the market in the form of a green aerosol. The substance perfectly copes with its duties at temperatures from -35°C to +400°C. According to the manufacturer, the product does not adversely affect rubber seals and parts. To use the lubricant, it is necessary to apply five layers, while waiting for each of them to dry.


Slipkote

In addition to the main purpose, this tool can be used in drinking water supply systems. Reviews from car owners confirm the high quality of the lubricant, but finding it on our market is not so easy. It effectively performs its functions, operating at temperatures from -46°C to +299°C. It is produced on the basis of synthetic fluid, thickening substances and special additives. Thanks to additives, the substance is resistant to rust and oxidation.


This tool has high anti-wear characteristics, which allows you to increase the service life of calipers. The lubricant was originally used by many automotive manufacturers, and it is marketed by the brands Toyota, Permatex, Loktite, Penzoil, etc. Despite many advantages, this tool has one drawback - high cost. Grease must not be used on machines equipped with drum brakes.

Liqui Moly

Some car owners believe that it is better not to find a lubricant. But judging by the reviews and the results of technical tests, the product cannot be classified as high-quality, it has many drawbacks. According to official data, the grease is heat-resistant, its use is allowed at temperatures from -40°C to +1200°C. Despite the fact that the product was initially positioned as a substance for treating calipers, its status was subsequently changed to an anti-creak lubricant. This is due to the fact that during the operation, many buyers experienced all the shortcomings and inefficiency of work.


The official website of the manufacturer indicates that it is not advisable to use Liquid Moli for guide calipers. But in many stores, this substance is positioned precisely as a means for ST.

Brembo

A lubricant that, thanks to anti-wear and anti-corrosion additives, effectively treats and protects calipers from the negative effects of brake fluid and water. Its use allows you to save parts from rapid wear and jamming. Brembo products are supplied to Porsche, Mercedes, Nissan, Chrysler, Audi, Fiat, etc.

Permatex Ultra

Designed for processing elements of the brake system, operating in harsh and aggressive conditions. The use of the product is allowed for lubricating bushings, plungers, couplings and pins. Laboratory studies have shown that the substance effectively protects calipers from water, corrosion and can perform its functions both in wet and dry environments. The operating temperature range is -40°C to +204.4°C. It is allowed to use the substance in internal and external mechanisms made of rubber or plastic.


Lubrication does not adversely affect parts made of ethylene propylene rubber. The use helps to prevent squeaking of disc brakes, sticking of pins and bushings, as well as the formation of new sounds in the operation of the brake system. According to official data, this tool is superior in its technical characteristics to other lubricants. The basis of the lubricant does not use petroleum products, as well as silicone. The tool is safe for the environment.

TRW

The lubricant is designed specifically for the treatment of guide calipers of the auto brake system. Its use is relevant in all mechanical assemblies, hydraulic devices operating with DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 class liquids. Does not have a negative effect on rubber, perfectly protects system elements from rapid wear. It is allowed to use for processing bearing devices of sliding and linear movement located in couplings, as well as bushings and spokes.


The fluid is characterized by excellent resistance to high loads and moisture, increased adhesion and rust protection. The tool is fully compatible with the materials from which the anthers and cuffs of the guides are made. The basis of the substance is synthetic oil and a thickening substance Li-complex. It is not allowed to use the agent for processing aluminum parts and elements operating under conditions of increased loads. Do not use the substance in brake lining bearings and for lubricating sliding surfaces.

What and where to lubricate

Things to consider when using a lubricant:

  1. If there is a creak and other third-party sounds during braking, the anti-creak plates must be treated with the agent. It should be noted that parts must be lubricated on both sides. The part that is installed to the piston of the working cylinder does not need to be processed.
  2. To simplify the procedure for moving the piston, its surface is treated with a lubricant. In this case, it is important not to overdo it, since the excess part of the substance will eventually begin to be squeezed out of the anthers.
  3. During the operation of the car, it is necessary to regularly process the springs that are used to press the pads. It would be useful to lubricate the surfaces of the latter. It is not allowed to lubricate the friction layer, which is considered to be working.
  4. With the help of a lubricant for brake guides, it is necessary to process the so-called fingers, that is, the calipers themselves. The amount of substance must be sufficient. But if there is a lot of lubricant, then it can get on the working surface of the pads, which should not be allowed.

The cost of lubricants

The price of the product depends on its quality, the volume of the tube and the manufacturer. The average cost of lubricants for guide calipers of a car varies in the region of 60-200 rubles. The cost of more expensive funds can be up to 1000 rubles.

This unpleasant and loud defect is known firsthand to many drivers, and it causes a completely different reaction. Most often, the owner prefers "not to interfere with the car's work" - after all, it's the easiest way, and the "sound" does not particularly affect the operation of the braking system itself. However, there are many meticulous motorists who struggle with sound in various ways - for example, lubricating the guides and even refining them.

What to lubricate

It would seem, what could be easier than lubricating the caliper guides? Many owners do just that - during the next “bulkhead” of the brake system, they take and lubricate their fingers with whatever comes to hand. As a rule, lithol and its derivatives, as well as graphite, are in the garage assortment. More advanced ones are puzzled by the search for a specialized composition designed specifically for use in the nodes of the brake system.

And now - a surprise: in most cases, both of them are doing it wrong! Yes, the caliper guide pins do need to be lubricated, but by no means with what is usually considered a suitable lubricant, even if it is positioned that way in an auto shop.

Car manufacturers produce guide lubricants under their own brands.

Here is a list of original OEM lubricants from some automakers with part numbers:

  • BMW 81 22 9 407 103, 83 23 0 305 690;
  • FORD/Motorcraft D7AZ-19A331-A, XG-3-A;
  • Volkswagen/Audi G 052 150 A2;
  • LAND ROVER RTC7603, SYL500010;
  • HONDA 08C30-B0224M, 08798-9027;
  • MAZDA 0000-77-XG3A;
  • NISSAN 999MP-AB002;
  • SUZUKI 99000-25100;
  • TOYOTA 08887-80609;
  • CHRYSLER/Mopar J8993704;
  • Volvo 1161325-4.

There are also lubricants that are produced by manufacturers of auto components and "chemistry" under their own brands:

  • ACDelco 89021537 (10-4022);
  • Federal Mogul F132005;
  • FTE Automotive W0109;
  • Stahlgruber 223 1712, 223 1729;
  • TRW Automotive PFG110.

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Such different lubricants

Unfortunately, in the vast majority of cases, car dealerships (both online and offline) will usually offer “wrong” - that is, anti-creak grease, which simply cannot be used in guides!

The fact is that copper and ceramic anti-creak pastes are designed to be applied to the back of the pads and mating elements of brake calipers, but they are not suitable for "guides" for several reasons. Firstly, after lubrication with solid oil, lithol, "graphite" and other mineral oil-based lubricants, the rubber anthers of the fingers almost always swell, stop sticking to the fingers and, in fact, simply cease to perform their function.

Secondly, only special greases based on synthetic oils and a thickener are suitable for lubricating guides. Due to this, the lubricant becomes refractory and does not "drain" from the guides after heating, and also does not coke over time from exposure to water and high temperatures. High-quality specialized lubricants hold up to + 300С without any problems, but at the same time they are non-aggressive to seals. At the same time, such lubricants not only do not melt, but also do not dissolve in water, alkalis, dilute acids, brake fluid, as well as methanol and ethanol.

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The use of the wrong lubricant in practice can lead to the opposite effect - that is, the lubricated guide pins turn sour in the caliper, due to which the floating bracket loses its mobility, and the pads begin to wedge and overheat.


On thematic forums, hundreds of pages are devoted to choosing the “right” lubricant for guides, but at the same time, the theoretical calculations and practical reviews given often contradict each other, which leads to even more confusion.

One of the most common universal lubricants is the American Slipkote 220-R DBC, although its price is somewhat “biting” - they ask for about a thousand rubles for an 85-gram tube! Slipkote lube is also available in "disposable" 10-gram sachets, which are noticeably cheaper.

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In car dealerships, often under the guise of a suitable composition for guide pins, they offer a fairly common grease Liqui Moly Bremsen Anti-Quietsch-Paste (art. 7573, 3077, 3079, 3074) in gray-blue color, but the manufacturer himself is currently positioning it as an anti-creak paste and It is not recommended to use for lubrication of guides and bookmarks in anthers. It contains a ceramic filler that has heat resistance up to 1200C, while the synthetic base can thermally degrade much earlier.

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In the production line of this German manufacturer there is a suitable Anti-Quietsch-Paste (art. 7656) in red, which does not affect rubber and plastic elements, but at the same time withstands heating up to +250C.

The VAZ car repair manual prescribed the use of UNIOL-1 waterproof grease, made on the basis of petroleum oils, to lubricate the guides. As a rule, in our time it is almost impossible to find it on sale, but it is quite possible to find an analogue-substitute - CIATIM-221 calcium grease. It is produced in accordance with GOST 9433-80 and is intended for the lubrication of various rolling bearings. There is also a fluorinated version of CIATIM-221F, which, thanks to the use of ultrafine polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), provides improved extreme pressure and antiwear properties.

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CIATIM-221 is inert to polymers and rubber, and also provides a temperature range from -60C to +150C, while maintaining short-term heating up to 200C, which makes it suitable for use on most "low-speed" cars like front-wheel drive Lad, but there are several "buts ".

Firstly, the dropping point of CIATIM-221 according to GOST 6793-74 is about 200 degrees - that is, in many cases, with the active use of the brakes, it can melt and leak out, so it can hardly replace the “branded” foreign-made lubricants prescribed for applications on modern foreign cars.

Secondly, CIATIM-221 is very expensive and is usually found only in large containers, while just a few grams are enough to lubricate the guides. That is why lubricant manufacturers usually sell them in small bags - but, as you already understood, it is important not to confuse anti-squeak lubricant for brake system components with the “same” product for guides.

Lubrication of the guides does not always solve the problem of knocking - as a rule, when working out in the holes of the caliper brackets during the ride, the parts still move, which leads to extraneous sounds.

Lubricate or replace?

For some cars, you can purchase caliper repair kits, which include anthers, pins and fasteners. True, often the guides are made by no one knows who and from what - that is, from "raw" metal, and the geometric dimensions are not always maintained correctly. Some mechanics manage not to change fingers, but, without further ado, simply ... rivet them with a hammer! After that, the guides can simply jam in the caliper ...


This is what the finger looks like after being “repaired” with a hammer.

Many car owners have encountered the fact that the calipers began to rattle even during the warranty period. Contacting an authorized dealer often ended with the replacement of complete assemblies, since not all manufacturers produce individual brake caliper parts as spare parts. At the same time, for Russian VAZs and some foreign-made cars, both clamps, and "palms", and brake cylinders can be purchased separately, and factory-made!

  1. Complex paste. The composition of the complex includes powder of copper, aluminum and graphite.
  2. Copper. Copper paste contains copper and graphite powder.
  3. Paste without the use of metal particles. Metal-free paste includes magnesium silicate and ceramic.
  4. Grease with copper or molybdenum disulfide.

As an example, I will give some brands of lubricants in this group:

Brands of the first subgroup (complex paste): Huskey 2000 Lubricating Paste and Anti-Seize Compound for High Temperature, Loctite No. 8060/8150/8151, Wurth AL 1100.

Marks of the second subgroup: HUSKEY 341 Copper Anti-Seize, LIQUI MOLY Kupfer-Paste, Mannol Kupfer-Paste Super-Hafteffekt, Marly Cooper Compound, Molykote Cu-7439 Plus Paste, Motip Koperspray, Permatex Copper Anti-Seize Lubricant, Pingo Kupfer-Paste, Valvoline Cooper Spray, Wurth SU 800.

Grades of pastes without metal content: Husky number 400 Anti-Seize, TEXTAR Cera Tec, LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste.

Grades of the fourth subgroup with molybdenum disulfide: HUSKEY Moly Paste, Assembly Lubricant & Anti-Seize Compound, Loctite #8012/8154/8155.

All pastes of the first group are applied to brake caliper guide pins and all surfaces with high friction. Who does not know, the surfaces of the brake pads are not lubricated.

The second group includes pastes based on mineral oil. As part of such a paste, bentonite thickener, metal particles and fatty acids are used. The operating temperature range of such a lubricant is -45 C ... +180 C. It follows that if this type of lubricant is used, then the car must be operated so as not to drive on steep slopes and frequent braking. This, for example, is the Teroson VR500 / Teroson VR500 brand.

The third group of lubrication from synthetic oil. It has excellent physical and chemical characteristics. Due to the fact that such a paste contains purified synthetics, a thickener and additives that protect against corrosion, oxidation and wear, this lubricant does not spread or evaporate, it also does not dissolve in water and brake fluid, it is a dielectric, that is, it almost does not conduct electricity. Temperature operating mode -40 С ... +300 С.

This group includes such brands of manufacturers: Molykote AS-880N Grease, Permatex Ultra Disk Brake Caliper Lube, SLIPKOTE 220-R Silicone Disc Brake Caliper Grease and Noise Suppressor, SLIPKOTE 927 Disc Brake Caliper Grease.

Copper high temperature grease

Also, this grease is used for calipers and guides due to its ability to withstand high temperatures.

The composition of copper caliper grease includes: finely dispersed copper, mineral and synthetic oil and anti-corrosion agents.

Produced in the form of paste and spray. The consistency is thicker than other lubricants discussed above.

IMPORTANT! Car calipers are also made of aluminum. If the caliper is aluminum, then copper grease cannot be used!

Working in pairs, aluminum and copper, oxidation and subsequent corrosion occurs.

List of lubricants for calipers and guides

Caliper grease MS 1600 Russian production. Our very popular and highly effective grease, the temperature regime of which is -40 C ... +1000 C. The color is white. Does not corrode rubber and plastic parts. It is used to lubricate guides and caliper pistons, as well as non-working and end surfaces of brake pads.

The cost of MS-1600 is approximately up to 500 rubles for 2017. The weight of the tube is 100 grams. To replace one set of pads, about 5 grams of such a lubricant is enough, so it is also sold in such a small quantity, the cost of which is about 80 rubles.

IMPORTANT! MC 1600 with brake fluid marked DOT 5.0 must not be used!

With other brands of brake fluids Dot 3, Dot 4, Dot 5.1 can be used.

Slipkote 220-R DBC / Slipkot (Silicone Disc Brake Caliper Grease and Noise Suppressor). This lubricant has proven to be an excellent lubricating element for caliper guides, which can even be used in a water supply system.

The temperature regime of such a lubricant is from -50 to +300 C. It consists of pure synthetics, a thickener and an additive that provides protection against corrosion. Of the minuses of this brand is that it is more expensive than others, it costs about 1200 rubles per tube of 85 grams.

IMPORTANT! For vehicles with a drum brake system, Slipcoat 220-R DBC must not be used. Alternatively, you can use the Husky 2000.

Next brand of grease for calipers and guides Xado Verylube. It is cheaper than its competitors. Its use prevents the brake pads from jamming on the caliper guides.

It is sold as a spray, color is green, the volume of the can is 320 ml. Operating temperature range -45 ... +400 C. Does not corrode rubber parts. It is applied in layers, applied, waited until it dries, applied again, and so 5 layers. The price is about 250 rubles.

American brand of grease Molykote Cu 7439 made from finely ground copper powder and semi-synthetic oil. One of the common brands for calipers. Retains its properties at temperatures from -30 to +600 C.

Does not wash off or dissolve with water and brake fluid. Evaporation is close to zero. Withstands great pressure. Due to its composition, Molikot Ku 7439 grease protects against corrosion and sticking of parts.

And the next brand of lubricant LIQUI MOLY Bremsen-Anti-Quietsch-Paste was originally for calipers, but those who used it on their cars complained about emerging problems in the operation of the caliper and guides.

After that, the manufacturer changed the purpose of Likui Moli Bremsen Anti Squeak Paste grease to anti-squeak application. Therefore, it is better not to use it for applying calipers to the guide fingers, this is also stated by the manufacturer on the official website.

What is the best grease for calipers

The question of which lubricant is better to buy gets an answer after the following questions: for which car, operating conditions. If the car is not expensive, then the lubricant is usually used inexpensively. For owners of cars in the middle segment, Russian lubricants MS 1600 and KSADO VERY LOVE are perfect.

When using a car in racing, for example, off-road jeeps, it is better to take a lubricant whose operating temperature is large. This, as we have already considered, is the Slipkote 220-R DBC and Molykote Cu 7439 brands.

Considering the reviews of the indicated brands of lubricants for calipers and guide pins, the following results were revealed.

No deficiencies were identified for the Slipkote 220-R DBC brand. Everyone who has used it has been happy with it.

According to the brand Molykote Cu 7439, of the shortcomings, they write that it is not suitable for guide pins.

There are negative reviews for the Xado Verylube brand. They write that after a few months it becomes hard, coking.

According to the Russian MS 1600, they also write that after a year it turns into plasticine.

From this we conclude that it is better to use for each node the most suitable for its performance than one universal lubricant for all nodes.

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