Hi.

Going to do the front pads and disks soon. Do the calipers have normal pistons or do I need a windback tool?

Thanks 07 SE manual, Narvick black.

Normal pistons 2008 Freelander 2 HSE Si6 Black/Black - Hers
2009 Jaguar XKR 4.2 S/C Portfolio
2005 Jaguar XJR 4.2 S/C Black/Cranberry
2005 Jaguar X-Type 3.0L AWD - Gone

Never known front calipers to have wind back Pistons, usually just the rears.

The fronts do not need a windback tool, but take the cap off the reservoir and watch what happens as you slowly push the piston in.
When doing the rears, I would recommend a windback tool. I did mine without the tool using fettled bits made in my garage. Not advisable! Another member of the failed FL2 clutch/DMF club, twice.

Did mine using a G cramp with a small pad between it and the pistons. Worked a treat and saved the cost of a wind back tool.

For the rears I also used a G cramp and some softwood
Worked for me too.
I still don't think it's good advice though, the dust rubbers can easily tear. Another member of the failed FL2 clutch/DMF club, twice.

From memory, the only rear calipers I have seen that need a wind back tool are those with a caliper operated handbrake, not seperate handbrake shoes like the FL has. Saying that, I have changed my rear discs, pads and shoes and I can't remember whether they were wind back pistons or not. That's old age for you!

Well I am doing my rear brakes this morning (well it's stopped raining) and I can categorically say that you don't need a rewind tool. Strong fingers will do it or a g clamp otherwise. I also had the discs off to have a look inside, (came off easily and didn't have to wind back the adjuster) you often find that the mechanism attached to the end of the cable seizes up but not this time.