Hoping someone has some intel about brake calipers. As I’ve posted, I’m restoring a 1972 350SL Us version. We decided to change the calipers and pads all around due to a locked caliper. I did some research and bought a remanufactured version and was sent the wrong thing so I scrapped the idea and went to Pelican for new ATE rotors. Check wheel by wheel for the right fitment. I have two “small” problems.
1. Rear calipers do not have the hole in the same place. This makes the metal line not fit. I’m going to call Pelican and see if they have one like the original with hole lower instead of slightly off center in the middle. See picture of old caliper and new. I have the metal brake line sticking in the hole in the picture. Does anyone know if you can still get calipers where the hole is at the bottom like my originals?
2. Front calipers - are slightly larger inside see measurement. They will bolt on and believe they would work but the new front brake pads I bought are too small. They do fit in the old calipers, so I believe I bought the correct pads. I’m calling pelican about this as well. I see that I have two options - figure out how to get calipers exactly the same as those I’m replacing or use the new calipers but find out what pads I need that will fit.
Would appreciate any advice on these two problems. Almost road ready so anxious to get the correct materials installed and functional. Thank you! Rear Rear Front Front
Update - discovered that the new front calipers allow for a wider pad to accommodate wear sensors. Thanks to my friends here and at Benzworld for providing the part number for the wider, thicker pad - on order and should work well.
As far as the rear calipers, still working on it. Thinking the solution is a longer metal brake line since I’ve not seen any calipers that have the port where the calipers that were original to the car, I’ve not seen anywhere, even with the stamped designations of ATE and 22. It currently has a short metal hose shown in the pic, I’m thinking I can use an alternative but longer hose that’s a bit more flexible with two male ends. Appreciate the help - grateful to those who have done this before me - and I’ll be sure to pay back the kindness by helping those after me with what I leaned.
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