I did a thorough search on this topic and couldn't really find an answer to my question: Are Bentix calipers still available and could I "get by" with replacing just the right front? It's looking like I should replace both fronts with ATE's with new pads. I had the Bendix seals replaced about 15K ago on both fronts and now the right leaks following a few weeks of pulling to the left again.
Thanks guys!!
Tony Van Helden

Tony,

I know nothing of the availability of the Bendix calipers, but the guys at Partshop may, so either send an inquiry to them or call them. I would not mix braking equipment especially on the same axle. Brakes are pretty important safety features and I don't let other people work on my brakes because I have found too many sloppy mistakes in the past. I would replace both front calipers. And I would get new ones as rebuilt ones tend to be susceptible to siezing. That seal you had replaced is the only thing that pulls the piston back from the disc when you let your foot off the brake. If the cylinder bore and piston diameter are not (edit to add "not") dead on correct, the effectiveness of the seal is compromised. If you get a leaker, you are lucky you have not had the brake lock up. I am curious about how the right brake, unless it is gushing and cannot hold pressure (in which case it should be leaking all the fluid out of the reservoir just because of the elevation difference between the brake and the caliper) is causing the car to pull to the left. I think your left brake is not releasing, and you have a problem there as well. Good Luck, Jim

__________________
Own:
1986 Euro 190E 2.3-16 (291,000 miles),
1998 E300D TurboDiesel, 231,000 miles -purchased with 45,000,
1988 300E 5-speed 252,000 miles,
1983 240D 4-speed, purchased w/136,000, now with 222,000 miles.
2009 ML320CDI Bluetec, 89,000 miles

Owned:
1971 220D (250,000 miles plus, sold to father-in-law),
1975 240D (245,000 miles - died of body rot),
1991 350SD (176,560 miles, weakest Benz I have owned),
1999 C230 Sport (45,400 miles),
1982 240D (321,000 miles, put to sleep)

Jim,

The right one leaked all over the inside of the wheel. I think I'll get back to Phil at Fastlane and start out with all new ATE's. Sounds like the best way to go. Thanks for your help!
Tony