Wedge for SMC

[Fawlty]

Any suggestions for what to use, when the SMC is removed in order to stop the pads closing when bleeding?

 

[Obo]

I use cedar shingle shims in the calipers. Any shim will do (wood, plastic etc.)

 

[Igofar]

Paint stirring sticks (2) will work, and are free at ACE hardware or Walmart.
I made custom nylon shims the thickness of the rotors, that are washable and reusable.

 

[dduelin]

Before Vinny gave me a purpose cut piece of acrylic I used a ordinary wrench, maybe 15 mm, with painters tape wrapped around the grip.

 

[JohnK]

I too have used the wood shims as they allow for new or worn brake pad spacers when counter opposed to adjust thickness. Also the paint stick it was actually just a hair over the width of the disk. What ever you use add it to the tool box

 

[Fawlty]

Thanks everyone, for your replies. If I use wood, would it have to be hardwood? Would the pistons sink in to softwood?

 

[Al st1100]

Thanks everyone, for your replies. If I use wood, would it have to be hardwood? Would the pistons sink in to softwood?

no

 

[Oldbikefixr]

I bought one of these from Dennis Kirk a few years back. Works and stays in place.

 

[Igofar]

Thanks everyone, for your replies. If I use wood, would it have to be hardwood? Would the pistons sink in to softwood?

The shim goes between the pads, nothing should contact the pistons.

 

[Igofar]

I bought one of these from Dennis Kirk a few years back. Works and stays in place.

Oooh I want one

 

[MidLife]

Oooh I want one

Amazon.com

 

[SMSW]

Oooh I want one

Lots of them here in all colors and types
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=brake+pad+tool&crid

@Oldbikefixr's

Amazon.com