W126 Front Caliper Types - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

STORMINORMAN · #1 09-03-2010, 02:13 PM

I already have new front rotors and brake lines for this car, the '88 420SEL.

I already have a set of premium front pads.

I don't have the wheels off at this time but I know that the front left caliper is sticking, intermittantly, because the tire shop just checked it ("Wow! You're right: that caliper is very hot, almost burned me through my glove!") as my tires were being rotated and rebalanced just coming off a trip, yesterday. I noticed a little vibration when using the brakes: no pull to either side when applying, some vibration when released...

I'm not trying to REBUILD these calipers, in which case knowing which type they were would be vital: I'm just replacing them.

My question is whether it even really matters if I originally had Bendix or theGirling/ATE type calipers if I replace both across the front axle with a remanufactured (with "new OEM piston & mounting hardware" which I presume to mean "including new caliper mounting bolts") pair that match?

Thanks for the responses.

tbomachines · #2 09-03-2010, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by STORMINORMAN

My question is whether it even really matters if I originally had Bendix or theGirling/ATE type calipers if I replace both across the front axle with a remanufactured (with "new OEM piston & mounting hardware" which I presume to mean "including new caliper mounting bolts") pair that match?

Thanks for the responses.

It does not. As long as you have the same brand on the same axle you are all set. I personally went from Bendix to ATE (or maybe the other way around? can't remember) on my w126 on my rear axle due to availability of the calipers. As others have said, the most important thing is having a matching pair per axle and you are good to go.

david s poole · #3 09-05-2010, 02:19 PM

ate and bendix are interchangable.ate is cheaper and more easily obtainable----no brainer.