Avid Elixir Brake stays on!

Alphafloor
Alphafloor Posts: 14
edited June 2012 in MTB workshop & tech
My rear brake won't release and stays on.

I noticed on my last ride the brake seemed to be rubbing a lot against the disk from both pads. I went to go for a ride today and found that the pads are now firmly against the disk. Managed to get the pads out and wheel off finally and it seems the pistons aren't fully flush and I can't get them to do so.

Am I being really daft or is this easily sorted, bleed etc.

Cheers
Specialized Camber Pro 2011

Genesis Core 40 2009 - With upgrades

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    What has been done to the brakes?

    Let's some fluid out via the lever bleed screw. Take care not to drip on the front disc.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • Alphafloor
    Alphafloor Posts: 14
    nicklouse wrote:
    What has been done to the brakes?

    Nothing. I've ridden the bike for a year without any problems or (major) crashes.
    nicklouse wrote:
    Let's some fluid out via the lever bleed screw. Take care not to drip on the front disc.

    I'll give that a go thanks.
    Specialized Camber Pro 2011

    Genesis Core 40 2009 - With upgrades
  • cooldad
    cooldad Posts: 32,599
    Before you do try setting the pistons back - stick a big screwdriver in (leave the pads in in case you wreck anything) and turn it like a key.
    I don't do smileys.

    There is no secret ingredient - Kung Fu Panda

    London Calling on Facebook

    Parktools
  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    Better still use the wedge shaped Avid pad seperator and push it in.....
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • Alphafloor
    Alphafloor Posts: 14
    Ok. Tried all of the above with some success.

    I'm guessing now that as it was a problem that got slowly worse over time there must be air in the system that has expanded with the rise in temperature.

    This would require a bleed.
    Specialized Camber Pro 2011

    Genesis Core 40 2009 - With upgrades
  • cooldad
    cooldad Posts: 32,599
    If you have a 'soft' lever they may need bleeding, but it doesn't sound like it.
    I don't do smileys.

    There is no secret ingredient - Kung Fu Panda

    London Calling on Facebook

    Parktools

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