Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Drive train, fuel, suspension, steering & brakes => Topic started by: twistedtree on September 30, 2012, 20:43:09

Title: 230 brakes - ATE or Girling?
Post by: twistedtree on September 30, 2012, 20:43:09

I've got an early 230SL and am not sure which front brake calipers I currently have, nor which I should put on as replacements.  On one hand I read that the 230's came with Girlings and are smaller than the 250 & 280.  But when I look up replacement calipers with the usual suspects, everyone lists ATE calipers and says they fit all W113 cars.

Can anyone identify what I have in the attached picture?  The round circle is kinda like the Girling symbol, but is missing the fisted "G".

Thanks,

Peter

Title: Re: 230 brakes - ATE or Girling?
Post by: Tomnistuff on September 30, 2012, 23:23:40

Peter, those are Girlings.  At least they are Girling equivalents.  ATEs have one piston on each side.  The Girlings have two pistons on the outboard side. 
Tom Kizer

Title: Re: 230 brakes - ATE or Girling?
Post by: twistedtree on September 30, 2012, 23:39:16

Thanks, Tom.

So Millers and Bud's both list ATE calipers are suitable for all W113 models and years.  Is this correct, and what are the implications of switching?  RockAuto lists rebuilt Girling's, so I can get them if that's what makes sense.

Thanks,

Peter

Title: Re: 230 brakes - ATE or Girling?
Post by: w113dude on October 01, 2012, 00:06:28

Hi Peter,

I don't think it would make any difference if they fit the front end then it should work, How ever I do have a pair of ATE front calipers from a parts car if you need them let me know.

Title: Re: 230 brakes - ATE or Girling?
Post by: Tomnistuff on October 01, 2012, 01:37:33

I`m replacing my Girlings with rebuilt Girlings.  Whatever you do, beware.  One of my calipers (driver`s side) is not quite the same casting as the passenger side casting.  I had to trim the backing plate to get the caliper to install correctly.  I suspect that there are "Girlings" and there are clones.  I've probably now got one of each.  I don't know about the ATEs, so you have to get the advice of people who know much more than I about these cars.
Tom Kizer