I'm trying to change out the brake pads, but the brake caliper pistons are getting in the way of the new thicker pads. How to you pull back or retracts the pistons to create sufficient room for the thicker pads?

 

 

I presume you refer to the front brakes with Brembo style calipers? If you cant get c-clamps in there, the specialty brake tool runs about $20 on amazon. See ABN ratcheting caliper piston tool.

 

Use the old pads to push the pistons back in with either a C-Clamp or a big pliers. Put a piece of cloth in between to prevent scratches.

If the old pads are really thin, use both pads to push each side of the pistons after doing it with one pad to create more room.

I used something like this when I did mine:

 

I've used this one for many decades but the ratcheting ones look pretty cool. Use the old pads at first to open the pistons enough to remove the pads then crank the pistons back as far as needed to get the new pads in.

DASBET Disc Brake Pad Installation Spreader Caliper Piston Spreader Tool https://a.co/d/4ROtshf

Make sure to take the cap off of the master cylinder and suck out and fluid as needed in case you filled it previously with the worn pads.

 

Thanks for the help!