rear caliper issues

[98LSC32V]

Recently did the rear brakes on my 96 Mark VIII, the right rear caliper dust boot is broken. Will this cause any long term problems?

 

[Junior]

I couldn't tell you for certain but if it were me I would replace it. Brakes and steering, don't cut corners.

 

[Dave H]

Are you talking about the dust boot over the piston of the caliper? Or is it one of the dust boots over the caliper slide pins (where the bolts go)? I would replace either to ensure longevity of the caliper and proper brake functioning. Both of those can cause long term issues like a caliper seizing on you. This "could" happen a year from now, or 5 years from now. And it may never happen to you depending on your driving situations. But seeing the importance of brakes, I'd error on the side of caution.
Replacing the dust boot over the piston may be easier and more economical to just get a new or remanufactured caliper. Unless you like rebuilding a caliper, and can source a rebuild kit for cheap. To use my '97 Maxima as an example, the reman caliper with a lifetime warranty was ~$30 at Advance Auto. Price for your vehicle may vary, so I'd check several sources.
If it is the caliper slide pin dust boots, a simple brake parts kit from Advance Auto contains new ones, along with new slide pins, pad slides, and anti-rattle clips if equipped. I paid ~$10 for my car. Again, your cost may vary.

Hope this helps.

Dave

 

[Junior]

When I redid the brakes on my 98 f150, the caliper seals, pistions and dust seals were iffy. They probably would have worked fine but after 8 years I decided to replace both sides with new calipers.

 

[98LSC32V]

Yea it's the piston caliper dust boot, I'll check around for prices.

 

[98LSC32V]

Will I be OK with just replacing one rear caliper or do you have to do them in pairs?

 

[Junior]

Just inspect the other caliper and piston for signs of wear, scoring etc. You will probably be fine. For me it depends on cost. If they are only $20 and I have to bleed the brake anyway; I replace both. IF they are $200 each, that is a different story

 

[mechtech2]

You are going to get dirt in there, and most importantly, WATER.
Things will corrode and stick.
You already know that you have to fix it, but a little silicone RTV is a good temporary patch.