While changing front brake pads yesterday, I found (or caused) a small leak of brake fluid from one of the rubber seals on the outer brake piston on the right caliper. I'm guessing I should take care of this before it gets any worse.

I'm on a pretty tight budget, so replacing the entire caliper is among my last options, since a rebuilt caliper will probably cost me $150-170. I called a lot of local "brake specialist" places and they all want to just sell me a new or rebuilt caliper. Nobody wants to recondition the one I have. So, I guess I do it myself.

In my IMPCO catalog, there's a "Caliper Seal Kit" for $27 that is probably all I need. Has anyone rebuilt the W123's Bendix calipers (actually, or any others)? How difficult is it? Any tips on it?

I can most likely get my hands on the chassis service manual for this job, if it's in there.

Any tips or insight is greatly appreciated.

- Nathan
'83 240D, 250,000 miles

I have done this and it isn't that bad as long as you don't take the caliper apart. There are no seals that will hold once the caliper is taken apart. All you have to do is remove both pistons and clean with fine scotch brite and clean the inside of the cylinder as well. Then lube with brake fluid and press back together. You may want to replace the brake lines as well. Be careful when doing this so you get the line on correctly!!!! If not the line can rub the wheel and zap! no brakes!!

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
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