C-clamp for Brakes [8 Best and What Size Should You Use?]

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The c-clamp is a special tool for holding a braking device firmly in place when it is being replaced. The size and type of the c-clamp you will need depends on the brake’s strength and the effort you may need to operate it.

The eight best C-clamps for brakes are the following:

  1. Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp
  2. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp, 6-Inch
  3. Tekton 6 Inch Malleable Iron C Clamp
  4. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp, 8-Inch
  5. Wilton Spark-Duty 400CS Hi-Vis C-Clamp Kit
  6. Tradespro 836141 6-Inch C-Clamp
  7. Bessey Tools CM40 Drop Forged C-Clamp, 4″
  8. Wilton 14270 408, 400 Series C-Clamp

Read on to learn more about these c-clamps and find out which tool is the right one for you.

Also, for an excellent C-clamp for brakes, take a look at Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp on Amazon to see its price and great reviews:

Click here to see it on Amazon.

C-clamp for Brakes [8 Best and What Size Should You Use?]

c clamp for brakes

If your brake pads are grinding or squealing, you might need to replace them. Of course, there is always your trusted mechanic who can do it for you.

But it pays to know how to do it if you have no other choice but to do it yourself. Besides, knowing how to do it makes it easier to understand when your mechanic is trying to explain it to you.

One of the tools you will need is the c-clamp. In this article, we will talk about the eight best c-clamp for brakes, which include the following:

  1. Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp
  2. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp
  3. Tekton 6 Inch Malleable Iron C Clamp
  4. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp
  5. Wilton Spark-Duty 400CS Hi-Vis C-Clamp Kit
  6. Tradespro 836141 6-Inch C-Clamp
  7. Bessey Tools CM40 Drop Forged C-Clamp
  8. Wilton 14270 408, 400 Series C-Clamp

1. Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Features a Heavy-duty Iron Alloy for Extra Clamp Strength

The Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp features a heavy-duty iron alloy for extra clamp strength. It is versatile in that you can use it for brake rotor, welding, fastening, parts assembly, metalwork, woodwork, and automotive work.

Thick Screw

Its screw is thicker than expected for durability and clamp security. It also features a swivel jaw, so the pressure is spread evenly. You can choose from three sizes, including 8 inches, 6 inches, and 3 inches.

Customer Reviews

From the United States, Mike Pardo bought a 6-inch Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp in 2021. He used it to compress the hydraulic piston on the brake calipers. He was impressed by how the c-clamp perfectly fit, allowing him to finish the job efficiently.

Mike claims it is even better than the specialized tool typically sold for this sole purpose, which can’t even be used as a c-clamp.

Also, from the United States, David Howery affirms how useful the Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp is. He has used it repeatedly and has maximized its use for different purposes. Also, he loves its bright orange color because it makes it easier to spot it among other clamps.

2. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Features a Double-rolled Thread for Quicker and More Efficient Clamping

The IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp features a double-rolled thread for quicker and more efficient clamping. Also, the double-rolled thread increases the clamp’s durability.

Larger Swivel Pads

Its swivel pad is larger than other clamps, which helps reduce marring on the work surface. The swivel pad increases stability on clamped items.

Features a Large Handle That Helps Increase Clamping Pressure

This c-clamp also features a large handle that helps increase clamping pressure without much effort. It also greatly helps in reducing hand fatigue. Overall, this product has a durable steel construction.

Customer Reviews

CarefulShopper from the United States bought their IRWIN QUICK GRIP C Clamp in 2019. The whole household has observed how well defined the shape of this c-clamp is.

Every time they use it, it allows them to get into tight spaces. They describe the screwing motion as excellent, and holding it down is consistently strong.

CG, also from the United States, tried putting roughly 200 lbs of force to move it, and impressively, the clamp held.

3. Tekton 6 Inch Malleable Iron C Clam

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Ideal for Metalworking, Woodworking, and Automotive Applications

The Tekton 6 Inch Malleable Iron C Clamp is another versatile clamp that secures parts for assembly, welding, gluing, or fastening. It is ideal for metalworking, woodworking, and automotive applications.

Features a Cast Malleable Iron Frame with an I-beam Design

This c-clamp features a cast malleable iron frame with an I-beam design, offering guaranteed strength. It has an acme-threaded screw that smoothly glides without binding or sticking.

Has a Sliding Handlebar

Its swivel jaw pad floats in a low-resistance ball-and-socket joint to apply even pressure. Also, it has a sliding handlebar that provides multiple hand positions for the best leverage.

Customer Reviews

Wolffe from the United States says that this Tekton 6 Inch Malleable Iron C Clamp is the most versatile tool anyone can ever have. You can use them to compress brake calipers and stop a fan belt while removing an engine cooling fan.

You can also use it for holding things while adhesive cures. While he chose to buy a 6-inch Tekton c-clamp due to its versatility, he also plans to buy the larger ones. This product is indeed a great buy.

RB, also from the United States, describes this product as a solid clamp. He is impressed by how convenient it is to clamp down and how fast he gets the job done. RB now owns 2 Tekton c-clamps.

4. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Features a Handle Larger Than Other 8-inch C-clamps

The 8-Inch IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp features a handle larger than other 8-inch c-clamps; this makes it more convenient to apply torque for added clamping pressure. It will not result in extreme hand fatigue.

Equipped with Double-threaded Screw

Its double-threaded screw decreases screw deflection and drifts for quicker clamping. This will allow you to apply 50% more clamping power than other clamps. It also features a large swivel pad that helps decrease marring on the work surface. At the same time, it greatly increases stability.

Customer Reviews

From the United States, Jack Knoll can attest to the durability of this product. He bought it mainly for brake calipers.

Knoll had broken three different c-clamps in the past when he used them to fix the brakes of his big truck. He could get the job done conveniently with the IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp. This reliable c-clamp has completed two brake jobs already since the time he bought it.

5. Wilton Spark-Duty 400CS Hi-Vis C-Clamp Kit

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Four Clamps of Varying Sizes

The Wilton Spark-Duty 400CS Hi-Vis C-Clamp Kit consists of four clamps which include the following:

  • H402CS C-Clamp with 2″ Opening Capacity
  • H404CS C-Clamp with 4″ Opening Capacity
  • H406CS C-Clamp with 6″ Opening Capacity
  • H408CS C-Clamp with 8″ Opening Capacity

Has Drop-forged Construction and Regular Duty Clamps with Extra Deep Throats

Its drop-forged construction and regular duty clamps with extra deep throats ensure its sturdiness. It has a V-grooved anvil that secures holding materials, like flats, squares, or rounds. This feature indeed proves its versatility.

Can Withstand Plenty of Pressure

It can withstand plenty of pressure as it can clamp down a maximum of 6,900 lbs of force—also, its Spark Duty copper-plated spindle guarantees to extend the lifespan of the clamp.

Customer Reviews

US-based J Haynes says that this heavy-duty product has no flaws. According to Nathan Taylor, who is also from the United States, the Wilton Spark-Duty 400CS Hi-Vis C-Clamp Kit is a badass product. He feels comfortable using it and doesn’t feel like using his older c-clamps anymore.

6. Tradespro 836141 6-Inch C-Clamp

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Tested for Durability

Kawasaki officially licenses the Tradespro 836141 6-Inch C-Clamp. It has been tested for durability and is made following the highest quality standards. Aside from the 6-inch c-clamp, Tradespro also offers a 4-inch c-clamp.

Ideal for Any Project Requiring a Clamping Tool

This c-clamp is ideal for any project requiring a clamping tool. It has a malleable steel construction body featuring a black powder-coated finish. It also has a chrome-plated screw bolt featuring a T-handle for long tool life and durability.

Customer Reviews

There are many buyers of the Tradespro c-clamp who can prove its efficiency. These include Laura, Rhino, Hayward W. Hefner Jr, Craig Bell, and Semyonov, all from the United States.

Most of them bought it to press caliper pistons in when changing brakes. They are amazed at how easily they can finish the job. This product is made of premium quality metal.

7. Bessey Tools CM40 Drop Forged C-Clamp

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Drop Forged Frame Features a Bright Galvanized Finish

This Bessey Tools product is a 4-inch drop-forged c-clamp. Its drop forged frame features a bright galvanized finish. Its swivel pad freely moves so that it can adapt to different surfaces.

Has a Cold-drawn Spindle Featuring Smoothly Rolled Threads

It has a cold-drawn spindle featuring smoothly rolled threads. Also, it has a high tensile body featuring hardened pads and spindles.

Customer Reviews

US-based Bill describes this Bessey c-clamp as having a well-cast body. He noticed that it has extra synthetic grease to threads, allowing smoother action and preventing galling.

T. J. Mitchell also affirms its sturdiness. He is impressed by its holding power and how he can efficiently get jobs done with this c-clamp.

MikeyD, also from the United States, has the same thing to say. He has practically used his c-clamp for almost everything, from simply holding a piece of fence up while drilling to holding a bed part together.

8. Wilton 14270 408, 400 Series C-Clamp

Click here to see it on Amazon.

Industry-Feet’s Top Choice for Maintenance, Production, and Repair Operations

This Wilton c-clamp is Industry-Feet’s top choice for maintenance, production, and repair operations. It has a drop-forged steel frame, regular duty, and an extra deep throat. Its black oxide spindles and perma-pad resist corrosion and, at the same time, are replaceable.

Customer Reviews

Twelve Twenty Nine from the United States can attest that this Wilton c-clamp allows him to save so much work. He has used several c-clamps in the past, but this one is the ideal one for him.

Its size is perfect for tire jobs, deep enough to reach the bead and strong enough to crank them down on the tire. Another Amazon Customer says that this Wilton c-clamp has a good price for a high-quality clamp.

What C-clamp Size for Brakes Is Best

what size c clamp for brakes

C-clamp’s Ideal Size Depends on the Vehicle’s Weight

The ideal size of the c-clamp depends on the weight of the vehicle. It also depends on the strength of the brake and the amount of effort required to operate it. The typical size used for brake jobs measures about 4 inches in most cases.

Adjustable C-clamps for Hard-to-Reach Places

However, there are c-clamps with bigger sizes that you can adjust. You can still use it for hard-to-reach places and get the job done efficiently.

Measure the C-clamp’s Size by Its Jaw Capacity

You can measure the size of the c-clamp by its jaw capacity. This means the dimension of the largest object the frame can accommodate with its screw fully extended. Typically, the jaw capacity ranges between 2 inches and 10 inches.

Depth of the C-clamp’s Throat

Another important factor is the depth of the c-clamp’s throat. This refers to the distance from the centerline of the screw down to the inside edge of the frame.

Depends on the Type of Work

Others say that the ideal c-clamp size for brakes ranges between 6 inches and 8 inches. In essence, the size you will choose greatly depends on the work that you need it for.

How Long Will It Take to Change Brake Pads and Rotors?

Factors to Look for in a C Clamp for Brakes

Here are several factors to consider when choosing a c-clamp for brakes:

  1. Purpose
  2. Size
  3. Material

Let’s briefly talk about each of these factors:

1. Purpose

What purpose do you need the c-clamp for? This is one of the factors you need to consider. If you are mostly doing brake jobs, choose the one that will best serve its purpose.

Besides, you will surely be able to use it even for other types of work. The c-clamp is one of the most versatile clamps there is.

A standard c-clamp is enough for DIY projects such as compressing brake calipers or changing vehicle brake pads. You don’t need a high-end one to get these jobs done.

But if you are a professional mechanic who uses the c-clamp every day, it is best to choose a heavy-duty one.

2. Size

The c-clamp’s size matters. But this is not difficult to decide on as long as you can identify the type of jobs you will mostly work on using the c-clamp.

Also, there are different sizes of c-clamps to choose from—these range between 1 inch and 12 inches.

When it comes to the size of the c-clamp, this means how wide the opening of the c-clamp should be. Suffice to say that the size of the c-clamp refers to its clamping capacity.

3. Material

Choose a c-clamp that is made of durable material. C-clamps are used for different purposes, which means that they are available in various materials. There are c-clamps intended for light jobs only, while those are for extensive jobs.

C-clamps made of zinc and chrome plating are known for durability and strength. But, of course, expect them to be more costly than the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions – The Best C-clamp for Brakes

best c-clamp for brakes

Here are some frequently asked questions about c-clamps for brakes:

What Size of C-clamp Do I Need to Change Brakes?

The ideal size of the c-clamp depends on the vehicle’s weight, the strength of the brake, and the amount of effort required to use it. Typically, you can get a job done with a 4-inch c-clamp.

Do You Need a C-clamp to Change Brakes?

Your vehicle might only have one piston for each wheel. However, the principle is the same. Before lowering the caliper into place, the pistons have to be pushed back or retracted.

That way, they will clear the new and thicker brake pads. Typically, do-it-yourselfers use a c-clamp to push back the piston or pistons.

Will a Four-inch C-clamp Work for Brakes?

You can use a 4-inch c-clamp to work on your brakes. It is enough to complete your brake job conveniently.

What Tool Is a C-clamp?

A c-clamp is a clamp device typically used to hold a metal or wood workpiece. It is often used in welding, carpentry, and automotive applications.

What Are C-clamps Good For?

C-clamps are used for holding joints together while being glued. They are used to hold materials to the work surface, such as when cutting or drilling. Typically, it is used in woodworking, carpentry, and automotive applications.

In Closing: 8 Best C-clamp for Brakes

To sum it up, here are the eight best c-clamps for brakes:

  1. Edward Tools Heavy Duty Steel C Clamp
  2. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp
  3. Tekton 6 Inch Malleable Iron C Clamp
  4. IRWIN QUICK-GRIP C Clamp
  5. Wilton Spark-Duty 400CS Hi-Vis C-Clamp Kit
  6. Tradespro 836141 6-Inch C-Clamp
  7. Bessey Tools CM40 Drop Forged C-Clamp
  8. Wilton 14270 408, 400 Series C-Clamp

However, before you buy one, consider several factors such as its use, size, and the material that the c-clamp is made of.

For DIY projects, there might not be a need to buy a heavy-duty and expensive c-clamp. But if you are a professional who uses a c-clamp every day, it is best to buy a heavy-duty one.

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