The question seems to be 'can you upgrade to "big brakes" using the stock
later-model calipers and just purchasing the larger rotors/pads (as opposed
to the whole 'kit')?' Karl was saying the piston is the same size, but does
that mean the entire caliper is suitable? Kim says they 'mount further out'-
how is this done?

It follows that if you could indeed use the stock calipers, provided they
were in good condition or at least good candidates for rebuilding, you could
save a good bit of money over the 'kits' by just getting the rotors and pads
(assuming you already had larger wheels)... Some clarification, please?

Cya,
Robert

----- Original Message -----
From: "Kim Brennan" <kimbrennan@MAC.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, February 19, 2006 9:20 AM
Subject: Re: SA big brakes: caliper rebuild kit?? UPDATE!

> Because the rotors are a larger diameter, the calipers mount further
> out as well. They will rub against the wheel if you use a 14" wheel.
>
> As to the benefit, it is easier to stop a spinning object if you grab
> it further out. Yes, if you have a larger swept area, that too will
> help, but by simply using a larger radius where you apply the
> clamping power, it is easier.
>
>
> On Feb 19, 2006, at 3:00 AM, Robert Smythe wrote:
>
>> Forgive my usual ignorance but I dont have both sets of parts,
>> stock and SA
>> caliper/discs staring me in the face.
>>
>> If it is the case that the pistons are the same, the pads/swept
>> area is the
>> same, is the only "bigness" to the SA brake system the vented
>> rotor? There
>> must be more to it, if the brake disc doesnt have a 0.5" larger
>> radius, why
>> does one need 15" wheels?
>>
>> Robert
>> 90 MV