330GT SII dunlop caliper rebuild or replace

[michaelbalk330]

sorry
at one point I had to make a new logon but this is my main one so lets use this thread.

a few calipers are sticking--- and they were painted black years ago by a PO, so I may use this opportunity to rebuild, cad plate etc. But as I was investigating, I hear there are some "replacement" non-dunlop calipers that bolt up and that have better seals or other attributes. I dont know any details so asking- who makes these, has anyone use them? or should i remain with the OEM even if the "newer technology" is better.? looking for advice.
Michael Balk

[tyang]

Hi Michael,

I've seen billet Stainless steel pistons used in place of the original dunlop pistons, and I would imagine they work the same as the original design with the lucas seals. The billet stainless pieces shouldn't corrode and will only need new seals if there is a problem. That being said, if the original dunlop piston is properly sleeved with a stainless insert, it should also not need anything but new seals in the future. The cad plating, however may rust, while the solid stainless pieces should stay corrosion free.

These days, I don't have a one step process for brake rebuilding, so I have to first clean the old calipers, send them out for cad plating, then out for sleeving. On their return, I have to then install the sleeves and assemble the brakes.

Tom

[chris]

Hi Michael,

If you want to have the original look it is best to resleeve the original units and have them cad plated. Most reproductions have either no dunlop markings or markings in the wrong font and size.

Greetings
Christopher

[DWR46]

Michael: As Chris has said, if you want the car to appear original, sleeve and rebuild your old Dunlop units. However, we have used the modern replacements from BG Developments in the UK (check their website) for our vintage racing Ferraris. They are a bolt-on replacement for the original Dunlop's, but use the Girling-style modern seal and piston arrangement. Much more reliable and trouble free. Much easier to repair also. So, if original appearance is not a concern I would investigate their alternative. I definitely recommend them if originality is not a concern.

[michaelbalk330]

thanks everyone.. this is exactly what I needed to know.
tough call- my car is very original, but its driven fairly regularly and its not a 10/10 show car.
I may go with Dykes suggestion and keep the originals for a future owner.
Michael

[michaelbalk330]

Also
Apparently Apple Hydraulics can rebuild them ( one stop shopping) too but I need to find out about their CAD plating..
Michael

[tyang]

Also
Apparently Apple Hydraulics can rebuild them ( one stop shopping) too but I need to find out about their CAD plating..
Michael

Make sure they're stainless. I thought they use brass sleeves...

Tom

[tinbender]

Also
Apparently Apple Hydraulics can rebuild them ( one stop shopping) too but I need to find out about their CAD plating..
Michael

Make sure they're stainless. I thought they use brass sleeves...

Tom

Tom,
Who are you using for stainless sleeving?

Terry