Front 390mm brake upgrade
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 394
Likes: 155
2013 E63 P30, 2010 GL550
However, if we introduce other variables such as what @kenneyd has done with the PowerStop pads, the result may be different. For example, if the new ceramic pads have lesser friction relative to the original pads, then the 390mm rotor upgrade will help to offset more pedal force necessary to maintain decent modulation ability.
Last edited by maxusa; Apr 10, 2023 at 04:07 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 693
Likes: 152
From: USA
m157 SL63
Yes, because the brake caliper design wraps over the rotor edge, the larger diameter rotor pushes the caliper with pads out by 15 mm ((390 - 360) / 2). A new bracket or spacers are needed. The contact patch does not change, but the increased radius (leverage) provides the relative reduction in force to achieve the same torque.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 394
Likes: 155
2013 E63 P30, 2010 GL550
The W212 brake caliper design wraps around the rotor edge. This means that it follows the outer edge of the rotor. The pads inside the caliper have basically a fixed position with some minimal play to accommodate rotor/caliper alignment and wear issues. This wraparound caliper design dominates the auto industry. There are nuances like the floating vs. fixed calipers, number of pistons, hydraulic vs. electric, etc.
I have driven cars and motorcycles with the barrel drum-style brakes, but these are much older designs without the rotor/caliper.
I have driven cars and motorcycles with the barrel drum-style brakes, but these are much older designs without the rotor/caliper.
Last edited by maxusa; Apr 10, 2023 at 04:38 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 693
Likes: 152
From: USA
m157 SL63
The W212 brake caliper design wraps around the rotor edge. This means that it follows the outer edge of the rotor. The pads inside the caliper have basically a fixed position with some minimal play to accommodate rotor/caliper alignment and wear issues. This wraparound caliper design dominates the auto industry. There are nuances like the floating vs. fixed calipers, number of pistons, hydraulic vs. electric, etc.
I have driven cars and motorcycles with the barrel drum-style brakes, but these are much older designs without the rotor/caliper.
I have driven cars and motorcycles with the barrel drum-style brakes, but these are much older designs without the rotor/caliper.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 394
Likes: 155
2013 E63 P30, 2010 GL550
Correct. To be more precise, the caliper/pad assembly moves out (from the wheel center) to match the new rotor radius, exactly by 15mm. You need a new bracket for this. Pads generally move inside the caliper only to clamp the rotor... and a few mm play for alignment and wear. It is impossible to reposition the pads on their own.
Hope this helps.
Last edited by maxusa; Apr 11, 2023 at 11:34 AM.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2021
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
2011 E63 M156
can someone just answer the question without all the technical verbiage. Is there a upgraded brake kit for the E63 w212 (M156) or is the stock system pretty much the best..... I will say I am not too impressed by my stopping power.
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Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 222
Likes: 2
From: Melbourne Australia
MY06 E55
You may have a pad issue, as they are pretty good, but it depends on what your complaint is.
You can fit larger discs, and buy spacers, this re-uses your calipers ( I did this )
But if your complaint is caliper / pad related it won't fix it.
To be honest I was happy with mine, but did it purely for looks.
You can fit larger discs, and buy spacers, this re-uses your calipers ( I did this )
But if your complaint is caliper / pad related it won't fix it.
To be honest I was happy with mine, but did it purely for looks.
