1996 z28, started rear brakes. Couldn't figure out how to get the bottom caliper bolt out so just took the 2 bracket bolts off. Got pads out but now i CANNOT compress the caliper back in. Doesn't seem to be a screw type, so a c clamp should do that trick but i about ruptured a tendon trying to screw that damn thing back in. Thoughts?

 

There isn't anything in the rear caliper that has to be tweaked to allow a clamp to compress it. Is the parking brake released? If so, my best guess is the caliper is seized. I had both front calipers rebuilt at a Meineke for about $100 way back in the day which included new seals and pistons. It might be a little less for single piston calipers.

 

Yes, it sounds like the piston is seized in the bore. You can usually rebuild it yourself in a few minutes...it is really simple...but the concern is that the bore is damaged. Its worth pulling apart to see if it's damaged and then order a piston and seals if it can be fixed. If it can't be fixed, RockAuto.com has reman ACDelco calipers with hardware for about $100...

 

So I'm looking at replacement calipers and there appears to be different styles? The first (with the large spring piece) is what i have currently on my 96 z28. Does that assembly have to come off or does the cable attach differently to the other style? How do you even get that contraption off? I'm so confused please help lol.

 

Do you have a copy of the 1996 factory service manual? If not, free download here, courtesy of GaryDoug:

https://www.mediafire.com/?40mfgeoe4ctti