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#1
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Brake Pad Choice
First let me say I am truly impressed with the scope and depth of MB/SL knowledge on this site. It's somewhat intimidating, in that I expect I will be taking so much more than I can give to all of you, so my sincere thanks, in advance, for the help I've received so far (by simply reading), and will no doubt continue to benefit from.
I finally (2001) own the car I've always wanted, a 1988 560SL, black/palomino, in VERY nice shape. There was no PO documentation with the vehicle prior to 1997, but I know everything about it's history since then. Carfax provided no useful information ("more than 1 owner" and mileage verification from 1995 to present), but the car was obviously very well cared for. I have several questions, but will start with only this. I want to replace the front brake pads with a lower dust producing pad. I'm not an agressive driver, am willing to replace the rotors next time around (not with these pads though....not necessary), and want good, quiet performance with little dust. A ceramic/carbon fiber pad seems like a decent choice, but I could use some specific advice. Thanks folks!
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Hi Kelsey |
#2
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Original Parts, Original Parts, Original Parts. I just did a brake job, used rebuilt calipers, fancy pads/rotors, not happy with it. Next time, I'll use MB parts.
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#3
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Here's another option sure to start a firestorm. I solved the brake dust problem by installing Kleen Wheels. By default, I'm not an (overly) aggressive driver and I don't ride the brakes or slam them on at the last second. I also manually downshift on steep hills. Basically, my driving style doesn't tend to overheat brakes.
For your SL, you want Kleen Wheels #1202. No problems in a year and half of use and my wheels always look good now.
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Mike Heath 1988 560SL Black/Palomino 1988 300SEL Black Pearl/Burgandy 1984 500SEC Anthracite Grey/Palomino |
#4
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I agree on the Kleen Wheels. My OEM rims got nailed by brake-dust. I know some are concerned by a drop in performance but for me, it was a good option.
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#5
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I've heard bad stuff about kleen wheels. I was told that they can cause heat buildup and you will notice a loss of performance due to heat fade. I wouldn't make that sacrifice just for looks.
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#6
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During normal driving, do you really think heat build-up is an issue with these? I have a hard time believing that it would make any difference.
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#7
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depends on how you're driving, and there are always emergency situations where you don't want to be surprised with weakened performance.
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#8
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I'll say it again. In over a year and a half with Kleen Wheels installed on a daily driver (560SL), I have not experienced brake fade and have never warped a rotor.
The stock wheels for the 560SL don't let a ton of air in from the outside to begin with. The vast majoriity of air comes from the inside side of the wheel anyway. Just look at the design and think about it.
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Mike Heath 1988 560SL Black/Palomino 1988 300SEL Black Pearl/Burgandy 1984 500SEC Anthracite Grey/Palomino |
#9
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I have no firsthand experience with them, I am only relaying the experience of others (with different cars). If there are no problems with them, go ahead and try them.
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