'71 280S 108~ Need NeW Calipers???

[stenborg]

Do I actually need to replace both front calipers? Since he's taken both off, the guy tells me that the fluid has leaked, and thus the calipers canNoT be repaired, but need to be replaced. When I look at these heavy metal substantial components, it's hard to believe they can't be repaired. What's the deal, please? Please give me info/links/etc on this brake-fixing business. And if I do have to replace both calipers, where's the best price for them? I've already replaced the master cylinder ~ yeah. But right now, it feels like there's no end in sight.

 

[television]

Repair kits are the best way to go they are listed in the link

http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.asp?TP=1&F=108018&M=130.980&CT=F&cat=232&SID=42&SGR=001&SGN=01

 

[brandwooddixon]

What tends to happen is that the pistons dont travel far and the bore of the piston tube corrodes. As the pads wear the piston travels further out until it reaches the corroded part, which doesn't seal so well, hence the leak.

Your mechanic is covering himself by stating that he can't repair them as depending on how badly the piston area is corroded it may be possible to achieve a succesful repair or not.

Once you have your repair kit, take the caliper off and remove the pistons. Using some fine wet and dry rub away at any corrosion within the cylindrical area in which the piston resides until smooth. In the past I've found it best to use a side to side motion rather than a back and forth one. Try not to concentrate only on the corroded area, you're looking for a smooth transition for the piston seal to pass over not 100% concentricity. You may still be left with a dark area of metal, smoothness is the key.

Once you have fitted your pistons with some new seals and pushed them fully home use a little silicon grease to lubricate the area in front of the piston. This will help prevent any corrosion in the future.

 

[television]

I will say thank you for a super answer that can be used in the future

 

[stenborg]

71 280S 108 ~ Needing Calipers

Thanks to everyone who replied.
But, Malcolm, I couldn't make heads or tails of the site you mentioned for a rebuild kit.

How do I know whether I have ATE or Bendix Calipers?
VIN = 10801612075944.

Here's to good brakes and being on the road again.

 

[television]

Thanks to everyone who replied.
But, Malcolm, I couldn't make heads or tails of the site you mentioned for a rebuild kit.

How do I know whether I have ATE or Bendix Calipers?
VIN = 10801612075944.

Here's to good brakes and being on the road again.

The name is cast into the calliper

 

[stenborg]

Thanks Much!

Thank You, Malcolm. Right there it is, "ATE...G49".

 

[Myros]

it's probably better to buy new ones

I have repaired calipers and master cylinders in the past, but frankly, for the peace of mind, and less faffing about,you might as well go and fit new. If you have trouble locating them, or just want a comparison in price, try Brakes International at Rochdale. they are on the web. I had my calipers and pads from them, and master cylinder from Eurocarparts.

 

[MIW615]

I have repaired calipers and master cylinders in the past, but frankly, for the peace of mind, and less faffing about,you might as well go and fit new. If you have trouble locating them, or just want a comparison in price, try Brakes International at Rochdale. they are on the web. I had my calipers and pads from them, and master cylinder from Eurocarparts.

To some point I agree, the mileage / age / condition of the calipers is a defining point, also depending on skill levels - for some it would be easier to unbolt and replace where others may have the time and expertise to overhall.

And bearing in mind it is far cheaper to overhaul than buy replacement calipers.

 

[television]

To some point I agree, the mileage / age / condition of the calipers is a defining point, also depending on skill levels - for some it would be easier to unbolt and replace where others may have the time and expertise to overhall.

And bearing in mind it is far cheaper to overhaul than buy replacement calipers.

A good post, time ,skill, money, learning all comes into keeping an old car on the road, having been in that posistion in my life