it can be done and used just fine..but be aware that people do sometimes break the pad guide pins off the slaves.. you just need to bleed as normal, do the bolts back up, then hold the pads out by placing something underneath them (EG: matchsticks) to pull the pistons out slightly. Undo the lever bleed bolt, top up, bolt back. Sorted.. the resting position of the pads is now slightly further out than it was...and all is well. edit- just read the 1/2" thing...that's a loooong way!