wind back caliper

is there any way of winding back a caliper piston without using a special tool?

Assuming you have standard calipers you dont need a wind back tool at all. Use a G-Clamp.

Or if really stuck you can move it back but using something to lever pressure onto it. But be careful if doing it that way to not damage the caliper and ensure it goes back in evenly.

Most calipers that need wind back tools are rear calipers, which rotate as they come out. Normally on more modern cars.

Apols if I have misunderstood.

Thanks for the reply
I shall try that.
They are 16v calipers

I agree block of wood and a g clamp.

assuming you mean front, if so push it in using whatever method you find works. need to crack the bleed nipple off though if on the car.
if you mean rear calipers pushing the piston in with a g clamp or whatever will trash the handbrake mech, you need the proper windback tool in this case.

I use a g clamp, if you do not have one but you have a pair of spring compressors, this does it also, i forgot my g clamp on saturday doing a friends brakes, used one of the compressors and perfect.
You do not need to do anything else unless you plan on changing fluid also
Pete :wink:

i found on the rear calipers that the "key" for my angle grinder fitted perfectly and made it really easy to wind the piston back in.