Upgrading w123 with 1st generation w126 brakes
 

I just upgraded my wagon with first generation w126 rotors and calipers. I used a 1985 300SD to search for parts.

The only difference between w123 and 1st gen. w126 brakes is the front rotors are vented and thicker on the w126 and I think the caliper has a shorter piston. The rear calipers and rotors are exactly the same.

This upgrade is only for the benefit of the vented rotors and no different than a caliper and rotor R&R. I replaced the hoses and my front wheel bearings at the same time. There is no additional stopping power ... just more time to use it.:D

I used this write-up to help me. Thanks rhodes2010, it was helpful:cool::
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/214123-how-replace-front-rotor-w123.html


Before:
http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/b...er/brakeb4.jpg

After:
http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/b...nger/right.jpg

http://i204.photobucket.com/albums/b...enger/left.jpg

Beautiful job! Keep us informed on the long term results.

Thanks:D

I'll let everyone know how it holds up. I plan to tow a trailer which is what prompted the upgrade to vented rotors.

To lancaster?:D

The new set-up does look pretty - nice job. I won't be posting my before and after shots of the 240d - ol' arlene is camera shy.

:thumbsup:

That is a good idea. I had trouble with the heavier 300td wanting to warp rotors so a vented rotor is good with the extra weight, IMHO.

Tom W

Chad, you should paint your calipers red or something bright while you're at it. That would look pretty cool.

Your previous posts on this topic helped me decide to do this upgrade.:)


Dee8go,

I was considering painting the calipers, but they look so pretty the way they are. They will most likely be all black with brake dust in a week anyway.:D

I saw new brake lines there too. Looks nice.

Thanks. The fittings that were attached to the wheel well were tough even with two wrenches. I ended up breaking a piece off the plastic sensor cable clip. It still works fine, and it was the worst thing that happened through the whole job.:cool:

I am glad I decided to get two 3/8" drifts for the old race removal. Each hub destroyed all the clean edges on one drift. I imagine one 1/2" drift might give enough edge for all four races if you plan carefully.:)

I've rounded the fitting that attaches to the hose on one my of cars once. Not fun.

Why not SS brake hoses?

I was trying to keep my costs to a minimum. The brakes aren't the only thing I've needed to work on.:)

Do these rubber lines get much expansion? I guess if I was going to a 4 pot caliper it would be necessary.

[QUOTE=Chad300tdt;1825029]Your previous posts on this topic helped me decide to do this upgrade.:)

Glad to help.

Looks like a first class job.

Tom W

Happened to me too on a rear brake line of our '83SD....ended up replacing that section of the hard line....not all that big of a deal, but still a pain. :o