Caliper wind back - LH vs RH

[thwaller]

If this topic is here I missed it, so I am making it clear int he title what this is.

There are two types of wind back tools floating around, a right and left hand (clockwise and counter-clockwise). I have a Blue-Point set (YA8610A) which only has RH, same as the revised version, YA8610B. I seem to find the LH ones in the cheaper and generic sets ... like ABN, 8mile, etc ... the ones you find all over eBay and Amazon for approx $20.

This makes me wonder the applications for the LH version of the tool. I have used the RH one on all vehicles I have worked on with a wind back rear caliper, so I am sure I have just not yet been exposed to the LH applications.

Could anyone provide further information on these? Maybe the LH is specific to certain make and models, or just a hit and miss, I don't know. I have also heard some say that RH is for one side and LH is for the other. If someone could help clear this up, much appreciated.

EDIT: It has also crossed my mind that it might be as simple as catering to users that are RH and LH. That would be almost amusing.

 

[Fedwrench]

No, there are certain vehicles like some Fords where the left rear disc brake piston is rotated counterclockwise to compress it. The right side is rotated clockwise as usual.

It depends on what you work on as to whether you actually need it or not but, this is garage journal where it is better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

 

[thwaller]

At least I know there is a real difference as it relates to use and application.

Do you know, is there a way to tell when you would need to use the LH/RH combo vs just all RH? I would think that a trial and error is less than ideal. Maybe there is some indication visually or otherwise?

 

[mcmtech]

Most of the ones I’ve seen are mid 2000s fords. I’ve got an older harbor freight set with both of them, I’m sure it’s the exact same as the cheaper ones on amazon. It’s worked fine for years professionaly, but I don’t use it all that often, just on the wind in ones. I have a ratcheting Lang one for the push in type.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I have both, only use the one, clockwise I believe.

You dont need to have both, just dont crank the compression nut down all the way, then turn the handle backwards. It will loosen slightly in the process, but its not a big deal, there's your counterclockwise tool. Unless they're super tight going in I usually just use the clockwise one like that. Spray some pb blaster on the boot to help it move freely around the piston and not get all twisted up.