brake callipers for the unitiated

[ermie571]

Right....d reg syncro on 15" wheels, but is the standard 14" model.

I know there are two different types of calliper. If buying new, can they be replaced with anything....or does it have to be the same? What is the difference between the girling and the ATE - is one better than the other? How do I know which one I have got? (is it written on them??)

Had new pads for the MOT and was advised that the callipers were on the way - then we went off roading....and may *cough* have got water in them....which seeing as the seals were not alot of cop was probably not the best idea in the world! Anyway, all the while we were on grass and mud and in the river...not one moan, squeak or grind. Sorry to say that is not the story now....so I need to do something. Do I refurbish what I have with new seals? or buy new and refurbish what I have got....or chuck them away and buy new?

I am not getting noise driving in a straight line, but tight turns are producing screeching and grinding noises as I don't think the pistons are retracting fully. Would this seem right?

all advice gratefully rec'd

Em
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[Ian Hulley]

Get exchange calipers Emm ... I would advise against trying to refurb your own, no offense, we used to do this sort of thing back in the day and yes they would be ok afterwards BUT I wouldn't do it now.

*Cue the "But I'd rebuild it using half a bean tin and a rubber band the Postie left on the drive" reply

Ian

[AdrianC]

I know there are two different types of calliper. If buying new, can they be replaced with anything....or does it have to be the same? What is the difference between the girling and the ATE - is one better than the other? How do I know which one I have got? (is it written on them??)

Yes, in big letters.

They can be swapped, but I _think_ the caliper carrier (which doesn't come with the caliper) has to match. At least, for 2wd. I have no idea for Syncros.

I am not getting noise driving in a straight line, but tight turns are producing screeching and grinding noises as I don't think the pistons are retracting fully. Would this seem right?

No. The caliper doesn't move relative to the wheel when you turn the steering, so it sounds like something else going on. I'd take the wheel off and look for evidence of rubbing. Maybe also check the wheel bearing for play.

[ermie571]

thanks both.

Will whip wheels off at weekend and have a look - probs with photos. Then you educated lot can point me in the right direction!

regards

Em
xx