280SL front brake rotor on a 230SL

[IXLR8]

Hi--

In the technical manual, it states that one can upgrade the 230SL brakes by installing the brake rotor from the 280SL in a 230SL.

I see in the parts catalog that the 280SL brake rotor has a different part number than the 230SL, but the brake caliper has the same number (ATE).

I can't get the caliper to fit over the rotor. The caliper mounting holes don't line up with the threaded holes on the brake hub.

If one changes the 230SL rotor to the 280SL rotor, does the brake hub also need to be changed? Or, I am missing something simple?

Thanks in advance for your help.



Joe

[114015]

Dear Joe,

Yes, that's correct.

The W111 brake hubs (or achsle stubs or steering knuckles, A111 330 38 20 and 39 20) need to be replaced by the ones of the W108 (A108 330 00 20 and 01 20) as well.
Otherwise you cannot use the larger disc brakes (brake rotors).

Needless to say that the (new) brass bushings (180 332 01 48 and 111 332 01 48) in the steering knuckles need to be worked in with a reamer for the kingpin ..... 

Good luck

Achim

[IXLR8]

Thanks, Achim.

Your experience with fading brakes is the one noted in the Technical Manual so I'm confident that you speak with first-hand knowledge.

Thanks again,

Joe

[Benz Dr.]

Best way to do this is to simply replace the whole assembly. You can remove the upper and lower pivot bolts and it will lift out after you take off the brake line, shock, and sway bar link.

 The early braking system was designed to run 13 inch rims even though the 230SL has 14 inch. Not too difficult to do if you have everything ready to install. You will need to have an alignment done after everything is replaced.