Got new pads into the rear brake and had to "spread" them to get space between them.
Managed to create enough of a gap to get the disc between the pads but it's well tight.
How do I loosen it up? Been turning the wheel/pumpung lever but still stuck.
Do I need to bleed it?
bleed it...or while squeezing the pads apart, pull out the bleed plug in the lever and allow some fluid out (just a little)
it will prob shoot out so point it away from your face!
if however the pads/pistons dont have any more room to recede into the calliper, then the pads are too thick and need reducing down
Thanks Walla24
Yeah they're aftermarket pads so they may be a bit too thick but I'll try bleeding first 
no probs, post up how it goes 
pads out and force the pistons back in with a 10mm spanner (gently as they are resin and can break and don't push the retaining pin). Replace pads, and you're good to go...
or while squeezing the pads apart, pull out the bleed plug in the lever and allow some fluid out (just a little)
I wouldn't do that, you'll just end up needing to bleed them.
I used to use the following procedure:
1. Old pads out, clean out obvious gunk.
2. Put the shaft of a small spanner (8mm?) in the caliper and pump the level until the centre pin of both pistons meets it.
3. Lube the pistons with some silicone spray/grease.
4. Press the pistons back using a 10/12mm spanner.
5. Repeat 2-4 depending on how freely the pistons are moving.
6. Clean off any lingering lube to avoid contaminating the pads.
7. Put the new pads in.
If the pistons still creep out and won't stay fully retracted then with the new pads still in wedge them apart using old business cards and give the lever a few really hard pulls.
thanks chaps
combo of the above - bled the brakes and pumped a few times which improved things mightily.
wedged apart some more and pumped lever and seems pretty good now
just got to clean brake fluid off utility room floor/washing machine/walls/me before the missus gets back......
then bolt on my lights and off for a ride with the dog
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