Essex Caliper Spreader Tool V2 – AP Racing Brake Pad Change Tool
- V2 Updated Design: Revised mechanism and thicker end plates deliver 225% more stiffness under load
- Universal Fit: Works with AP Racing 6-piston and 4-piston calipers plus many aftermarket and OEM brands
- 360-Degree Rotating Plates: Optimize orientation for maximum clearance in any wheel well
- All-Metal Construction: Steel and aluminum build with zinc-coated end plates — no plastic
- Caulk-Gun Action: Simple squeeze operation retracts pistons in 5-6 pumps
- Protects Components: Eliminates risk of gouging discs, pistons, or dust boots from improvised tools
- Compact and Portable: Fits in toolboxes, wheel wells, and track bags
- End Plate Dimensions: 120mm x 90mm x 9.5mm (4.72” x 3.54” x 0.375”)
Essex Parts
Caliper Spreader Tool V2 Part # 17.01.10001
Stop struggling with brake pad changes. A few squeezes of the Essex Caliper Spreader Tool V2 will press your caliper pistons fully back into their bores, making space for fresh pads to drop right in.
The Right Tool for the Job
Brake Pad Changes Made Simple
Every brake pad change requires pushing caliper pistons back into their bores. Without the right tool, you are left improvising with screwdrivers, C-clamps, or channel locks that risk scratching painted calipers, damaging stainless steel or titanium pistons, tearing dust boots, or gouging expensive carbon ceramic discs.
The Essex Caliper Spreader Tool V2 eliminates all of that. Its oversized end plates cover all three pistons on a six-piston caliper at once, and the caulk-gun-style lever mechanism delivers smooth, controlled force with just five or six squeezes. No fumbling, no damage, no guesswork.
If you own high-end brakes from AP Racing, Brembo, StopTech, or any OEM caliper, this tool pays for itself after a single pad swap by protecting components worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Why This Tool
Built for Serious Brakes
Eight reasons the Essex Caliper Spreader V2 belongs in every enthusiast’s toolkit
V2 Design
Revised mechanism and plate design deliver more peak force during advancement. End plates are 225% stiffer than the previous model to reduce deflection under load.
Versatile
End plates are longer than most commercial spreaders, covering all three pistons of a six-piston caliper at once. Works with four-piston, single-piston, and fixed opposed calipers from many aftermarket and OEM brands.
Durable
Constructed entirely of steel and aluminum with zero plastic parts. Zinc-coated steel end plates resist corrosion. Built to last through years of brake services.
Compact
No long handles or bulky frames. Fits into tight spaces like wheel wells, toolboxes, and track day bags without taking up the room a C-clamp or standard spreader would.
Simple
Caulk-gun-style squeeze action is intuitive and easy. Typically retracts pistons in just five or six squeezes with no complicated setup required.
Safe
Eliminates the risk of scratching painted caliper finishes, damaging pistons, tearing dust boots, or gouging disc surfaces that comes with improvised tools like screwdrivers and pliers.
Affordable
Costs less than a single set of brake pads, yet saves time and protects components on every pad change for years to come. Pays for itself after one use.
360° Rotation
Spreader plates rotate a full 360 degrees, letting you orient them for maximum clearance in any caliper. A knurled pull knob behind the release lever makes retraction and removal easy.
Operation
How It Works
From insertion to fully retracted pistons in under 60 seconds
- 1
Vent the ReservoirLoosen the brake master cylinder reservoir cap several turns. This allows fluid to flow back as pistons retract and prevents pressure buildup.
- 2
Clean & Inspect PistonsMake sure the caliper pistons are free of heavy dirt or debris before inserting the tool. A quick wipe down prevents grit from being pushed into seals.
- 3
Insert the SpreaderPush the Release Lever to unlock the mechanism, slide the plates together, and insert them into the caliper as far as possible between the pistons.
- 4
Squeeze to RetractSqueeze the Advancement Lever until you feel resistance. Then squeeze firmly, pause a second or two, and squeeze again. Repeat five or six times until all pistons are fully retracted.
- 5
Remove the ToolPush the Release Lever to unlock, then use the knurled Pull Knob to slide the plates back together and remove the tool from the caliper. Install your new pads.
Technical Data
Specifications
Caliper Spreader Tool V2
Part # 17.01.10001
Compatibility
Confirmed Caliper Fitments
Designed for all AP Racing by Essex Brake Kits plus a wide range of aftermarket and OEM calipers
Watch
V2 Technical Updates & Best Practices
Full walkthrough of the V2 improvements, plate rotation adjustment, and step-by-step operation
Gallery
Product Images
Important Caution
Do not overload: Once pistons are fully retracted, stop squeezing. Applying excessive force after the pistons bottom out can damage the tool or caliper internals.
Screw-type pistons: Some OEM calipers use screw-type pistons (especially rears) that must be rotated to retract. This tool is designed for push-type pistons only. Check your service manual if unsure.
Brake fluid: Brake fluid is corrosive and can damage the tool’s handle finish. Wipe off any fluid immediately after use.
Pro Tips
Always vent the reservoir: Loosen your brake master cylinder reservoir cap before retracting pistons. This prevents pressure from fighting you and makes the process much easier.
Clean pistons first: Wipe down piston faces and caliper bores before inserting the tool. Grit pushed past the seals will cause problems down the road.
Plate rotation: Use a 1 1/16″ wrench to loosen the Rotation Adjustment Nut, orient the plates for best clearance, then tighten snugly before use.
Professional Installation
Function Factory Performance offers professional brake service and installation for all AP Racing by Essex brake systems.
Located in Thousand Oaks, California, our team has hands-on experience with Essex kits on Mustangs, Corvettes, McLarens, and more. Whether you need a pad swap, full kit install, or track support, we are here to help.
Need Help?
Questions About Brake Tools?
Our brake specialists can help you choose the right tools and components for your setup. Give us a call or schedule a consultation.
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