Put 15,000 miles on new O.E.M pads and Discs.Just noticed that the drivers side is badly worn.Should i rebuild the BENDIX calipers or replace them with new ATE calipers? Are ATE's that much better, or am i wasting my money?

I would replace them with rebuilt units of the same brand.

__________________
Jim

I looked over the choices, and it appears that you have three - one is listed as Bendix (but showing ACEI as the manufacturer?) for $96, one (with a different part number) with ACEI as the manufacturer for $90, and the ATE unit for $225.

I have used the ATE "Power Discs" (front brake rotors) when I upgraded the brakes in my BMW 535i (I mounted late model M5 brakes onto my '85), and these worked great. Of course, the upgraded brakes were overkill on that car, so I really can't say if it was the bigger size or the "better" rotors which offered the most increase.

Based upon price, it would imply that the ATE calipers are somewhat better than the other choices. Given that they don't appear different (it's not like they are six piston units), I would investigate if there is actually any difference, and if not I would pick the parts that are closest to (or actually) oem MB.

If ATE is claiming a performance gain with their calipers, it is probably worth investigating (an extra $200 on a repair job is relatively pennies on these cars...)

-David

A very reputable Indy suggested that i replace the Bendix with ATE calipers.He did not give me a reason,so i don't know the diffrence.

The question is,should i just rebuild the Bendix calipers or is it worth the money to replace with ATE. Is it necessary?

I would not attempt to rebuild the Bendix and I would not change what the car came with. Personally, I would purchase/install rebuilt Bendix calipers.

__________________
Jim

The best deals on rebuilt calipers are at www.********.com.

I have done two sets and both have worked out very well.

__________________
Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe