ATE Or Bendix Brake Calipper??

1981 300D

Hi,

I have to replace my brake pads but the web site where I found theem at a great price (thebenzbin.com) needs to know if it's an ATE or Bendix Calipper. How can I tell which are mine? I looked at them yesterday and couldn't see any logo.

Thanks

[JimSmith]

Kefer,

With the wheel off, the caliper fully in view, there should be a cast in, kind of stylized cursive lettering "ATE" symbol visible on their calipers. I am not sure of the Bendix ones, but I am sure there is a manufacturer's mark on them. These marks are usually not very large, possibly because Mercedes-Benz does not want them to be.

They may also be obscured by brake dust and dirt so you may have to clean them off to see anything. Good Luck, Jim

[rickjordan]

I doubt the calipers are Bendix, they are most likely ATE as are the ones on my '80 SD. For price, have you checked with "Fastlane" or the "PartsShop" ?

[william rogers]

Both my cars have ATE calipers make sure to use ATE pads if they dont come loaded....
William Rogers...

[h2odiesel]

I was under my 83 300SD doing the Motor mounts yesterday and happened to notice it had Bendix. The logo was on the middle of the casting buldge that houses the piston. It had an inverted nike type swoosh under the name. I have heard that Pagid(sp?), also an OEM manufactuer makes a pad that squeaks less than the ATEs. I got ATes on the front of My 84SD and they do not squeak, but some complain bitterly about them. I did use MB brake paste on the backs. I am also of the opinion that you can switch brands of calipers, but you should do so in pairs. Don't forget to do the hoses, they are too cheap no to.