I accidentally pushed the piston out of my rear brake caliper
 

Any pro tips for getting it back in? Can I grease the piston with permatex brake lube or is that ill-advised?

Should be able to just push it back in. I've always just lubed with brake fluid.

It was sticking and I didn't want to crack the cylinder. I might just line it up best I can, and push it back in with a caliper spreader, and hope it doesn't explode.

If it's sticking, you need to address that. Is the piston sticking or the slider? How does the seal look?

The piston was sticking and didn't want to go back in. The seal looks completely fine.

The cylinder bore and piston should be spotless. The piston must be perfectly lined up with the bore when inserted. Any misalignment will cause it to jam/bind. Don't force it! :)

Aren't you the lady's man.

Crack the bleeder valve while you push it back in. That way you aren't fighting air or brake fluid


If it's aligned properly and in good working order, you should be able to push it with just your hands