Brakedust shields - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

miljohnj5 · #1 12-25-2007, 08:54 PM

I recently put brakedust shields on my front wheels. The change of appearance made the purchase worthwhile. However, after searching for a better price on a second set for the rear wheels, I came across a 'do not purchase' review (always after-the-fact) in another Mercedes forum. Members cited the shields cause overheating due to lack of ventilation and also cause brake lines to swell? Anyone have any experience or advice in this area

TheDon · #2 12-25-2007, 09:01 PM

I don't know

my left rear had one but the rest did not.. I had it on for a year and never noticed anything other than no brake dust

#3 12-25-2007, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by miljohnj5

Members cited the shields cause overheating due to lack of ventilation

They are probably right.

I'd rather wash off my wheels once a month than risk heat cracking or glazing rotor(s).

tobybul · #4 12-25-2007, 09:30 PM

I have it on my 84D and never had problems...... in fact, I would like to put them on my other cars. Really keeps them looking clean for a long time. I would probably stick with Kleen Wheels.

Palangi · #5 12-25-2007, 09:34 PM

I have them on the 300D. 8 years / 120k miles, no problems.

H-townbenzoboy · #6 12-25-2007, 09:34 PM

I find it easier/safer to wash the rims off with soap and water when they're dirty, put a coat of wax on them, and just use a California Car Duster (exclusively used for the rims) to remove the dust when they're dirty.

babymog · #7 12-25-2007, 10:59 PM

The cooling air-flow is inhibited. However, since these brakes are designed to stop and control the car at autobahn speeds, it is unlikely IMO that normal city/highway driving will overheat the brakes.

I don't use them, drive hard some times and would rather keep my brakes and bearings cool.

H-townbenzoboy · #8 12-25-2007, 11:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by babymog

The cooling air-flow is inhibited. However, since these brakes are designed to stop and control the car at autobahn speeds, it is unlikely IMO that normal city/highway driving will overheat the brakes.

I don't use them, drive hard some times and would rather keep my brakes and bearings cool.

That's the reason why the bundt cake rims have the design they do, to facilitate the cooling better, as well as other MB rims. Pretty much goes against MB rim design standards to put those things on.