The caliper is blamed because very suddenly the brake pedal went "spongey" then it sank to the floor with pressure; braking ability was greatly reduced. But, I still had some brake left.
I stopped as quickly as possible to check and there was evidence of brake fluid having flowed down the tire and onto the pavement a little brake fluid "puddled". I drove home slowly, by way of back-roads.
Checking at home showed the brake line to be dry. Both front brake lines were replaced just last summer.
My conclusion: caliper is main culprit
because that's only thing left? Right?
I've asked some mechanical friends who felt caliper was likely to blame.
I ordered the caliper repair kit from FastLane. Hopefully, everything will go well.... Someone else with brake-work experience will do the actual work. He has never actually done a caliper overhaul so I will gather instructions (from Peter!) and pass them on to him.

So Peter, your information is so very critical because I don't know anyone or any place else to get the knowledge you are sharing with me.
Many thank yous!!!
debi

__________________
...debi

1971 250
1972 220D
1993 Lexus ES300