Hello -
I'm doing a caliper rebuild on my 2008 550i and having a crazy time trying to fit a new caliper dust boot onto the caliper. There is a metal ring inside the silicon seal that fits tightly around the caliper lid. Anyone have a trick to getting this on? I tried freezing the caliper and heating up the seal, but still couldn't get it to work. I've now torn three of them ... at $28 apiece, it's becoming expensive. Any help would be appreciated.

The caliper boot in question is this ...

 

This post probably helps:
E39 Front Brake Caliper Rebuild DIY - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums

 

I replaced both front calipers last year. I opted to replace the entire caliper with a rebuilt unit rather than rebuilding the current ones. I thin FCP has them for a about what you paid for the rebuild kit.

 

I never thought of using a rebuilt caliper. Didn't know they sold them like this. These are OEM ones that are swapped, I assume? Thanks for the info

 

I actually got my rebuilt calipers from Autozone. They ordered them at the store and I think I picked them up a day or two later. Think they were under $100 bucks each when you send yours back and get your deposit back on the core. This was way better than spending over $600 a piece at the dealer!

They are authentic ATE Calipers (OEM). The calipers side by side with the originals were identical with the stampings and part numbers. Where the BMW symbol was it was ground away. The idea is you send your back and they rebuild and put back into inventory for the next customer. I think the company that does this is Cardone or something like that. I've seen these on FCP Euro's site for cheaper than what I paid at Autozone! I think Parts Geek has them also. These are unloaded so you can either put new pads or reuse yours. It even comes with a new spring clip! While I was there I also opted to replace my brake lines. Be sure to inspect yours while your there. Good luck! Hope this helps.