Parts Catalog Accessories Catalog How To Articles Tech Forums
Call Pelican Parts at 888-280-7799
Shopping Cart Cart | Project List | Order Status | Help



Go Back   PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum > Mercedes-Benz Tech Information and Support > Mercedes-Benz SL Discussion Forum

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 03-03-2003, 05:55 AM
hikelsey's Avatar
Registered User
 
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 13
Thumbs up 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!

__________________
Hi Kelsey
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 03-03-2003, 03:08 PM
Registered User
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Alexandria, VA
Posts: 326
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.
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 03-03-2003, 03:25 PM
Registered User
 
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Austin, TX
Posts: 563
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.
__________________
Mike Heath
1988 560SL Black/Palomino
1988 300SEL Black Pearl/Burgandy
1984 500SEC Anthracite Grey/Palomino
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 03-03-2003, 06:51 PM
Registered User
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Alexandria, VA
Posts: 326
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.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 03-03-2003, 09:59 PM
4NDELIT's Avatar
Registered User
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Sacramento, CA
Posts: 887
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.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 03-04-2003, 09:19 AM
Registered User
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Alexandria, VA
Posts: 326
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.
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 03-04-2003, 10:18 AM
4NDELIT's Avatar
Registered User
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Sacramento, CA
Posts: 887
depends on how you're driving, and there are always emergency situations where you don't want to be surprised with weakened performance.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 03-04-2003, 10:26 AM
Registered User
 
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Austin, TX
Posts: 563
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.
__________________
Mike Heath
1988 560SL Black/Palomino
1988 300SEL Black Pearl/Burgandy
1984 500SEC Anthracite Grey/Palomino
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 03-04-2003, 06:56 PM
4NDELIT's Avatar
Registered User
 
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Sacramento, CA
Posts: 887
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.

Reply With Quote
Reply

Bookmarks

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is On
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On




All times are GMT -4. The time now is 01:19 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.7
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Search Engine Optimization by vBSEO 3.6.0
Copyright 2024 Pelican Parts, LLC - Posts may be archived for display on the Peach Parts or Pelican Parts Website -    DMCA Registered Agent Contact Page