Brakes and struts

[Hoss3.0]

I just bought a '72 T and it looks like I have a sticky front caliper (left), I would also like to replace the front struts (shocks). I checked and the calipers are aluminum (so I guess "S") and the struts are orange (Koni). Are the replacement calipers really $2600-$2800? How often is a rebuild successful (ie pitting, corrosion,etc) is sleeving required? At that price I would be willing to try anything. I also seem to think that Koni struts can only be re-built with Koni inserts...correct? Another question I have is rear ride height adjustment. My car seems a little low in the back so I would like to bring it back up a bit. Does anyone have an easy (clear) explanation on how to do this? The Clymer manual makes it sound like rocket science. I don't think it's that involved really, is it.

[Bill Verburg]

Someone must have upgraded the struts/brakes at some point. The S calipers are unobtainable new. The will last virtually forever if properly cared for.

Whitpost Restorations can restore them to like new condition.

After the restoration just change the brake fluid yearly and exercise the pistons occasionally.

By the way a sticky caliper can often be an old internally swollen rubber brake line.

[randywebb]

Measure the bolt spacing to be sure -- is it ~3" or ~3.5"?

Also, Bill -- do you recommend the stainless steel pistons?

[masraum]

How low is your rear?? moving the rear suspension up and down is a PITA. If you have the room it'd be much, much easier to just lower the front.

Also, if you don't already know. If you measure from the top of the fender lip the rear should be 1/2" lower than the front because the rear is cut differently than the front.

[Hoss3.0]

So the aluminium calipers werent an option on the "72 T? It also has the "s" front bumper and sport seats, along with the calipers and struts I mentioned. Does KYB, Boge or anyone else offer an insert for the struts.

[Bill Verburg]

Whitepost will rebuild w/ ss pistons as a matter of course

[Hoss3.0]

What should the height from ground to fender lip be. Front and back. I know it's a rough measurement but it will give me and idea.

[Bill Verburg]

So the aluminium calipers werent an option on the "72 T? It also has the "s" front bumper and sport seats, along with the calipers and struts I mentioned. Does KYB, Boge or anyone else offer an insert for the struts

The S spoiler and sport seats were factory options. The S calipers and 3.5" konis struts were not.

KYB Boge et all are a step backward I wouldn't do that. i do like the Bilstein struts a lot.

~25" at the front lip and ~24 5/8 at the rear will be in the ball park w/ a little bit of a forward rake.

[Hoss3.0]

Could someone please send a pic of "S" calipers. My idea of these is not whats on my car. The "S" style that I have seen are very sculpted and small. My calipers are normal size, just made from aluminium. Any input on the struts?

[LakeCleElum]

Mike - My '73 has Koni's, Sports seats, "S" front bumper, but regular calipers. I solved the caliper problem by replacing the rubber hoses with braided stainless. I like the Koni's a lot and would suggest you send them to Koni to be rebuilt and keep them. One of the best set-ups out there if want to stay original.

[Bill Verburg]

S calipers

[Hoss3.0]

So these are the "S" brakes after all. Does this mean I got really lucky with the purchase, or is it a cost burden? Would it have much impact on the value of the car. The car is otherwise in great shape with no rust but just some cracking on the dash. The seats are excellent but need re-stuffing. If anyone is wondering I paid in the order of $9000 US.

[Bill Verburg]

Yes, those are S calipers. Depending on the condition of the rest of the car you got a good deal.

[Hoss3.0]

More pics

[mmastro]

Sweet deal!!

What a great base for an early car!

[Hoss3.0]

So can anyone give me info on where to send the struts. Bearing in mind I live in Canada not California. I'm starting to think I need to keep this car as original as possible. It has 77000 documented miles, Weber carbs, the Fuchs (15X6) were painted black at some point...which at first was a drag. But I have since cleaned one off and found the paint acted as a protector and they are in excellent shape. Original color was Silver Metallic 8080 (off certificate). But until I can afford an excellent re-paint I will keep it the way it is with a hint of '73 RS, no permanent mods though.

[jpahemi]

It seems that the aluminum calipers on Mike's car are different than those from Bill's pic. Weren't there two styles of "S" calipers; one from the early Turbo and the RS?
Regards,
J.P.

[Hoss3.0]

Mine say ATE on them.

[randywebb]

You want to send the struts in? Or just the calipers?

Check w/customs to see what their requirements are. There are also a few Canadians on the bbs. I think catca is one. Also Reynald posts every once in a while either here or on Early911s bbs. Since you live in Aunt Hario, you are not really that far away from Dr. Brakeburg.

[Reg]

Mike

Unless you have another set of seats in the garage, you've got regular seats in your car, not the highly desirable $port $eat$.

I wish my car was at your ride height! I think she looks great.