1966 230SL Front Caliper Removal

[Harry]

Many of you know that the flex brake line runs to the rear of the front spindle, mates to a small steel tube that routes to the from of the spindle and attaches to the caliper.  (Geez.)  Is there a best way to remove the calipers?  I hate to break the line, lose the fluid and have to refill/bleed but perhaps there is no other option.  It doesn't look as though you can remove the two allen screws where the flex line meets the tubing and have enough play to work the caliper off.  Maybe I'm wrong?

Advice is much welcomed.

Thanks,
Harry

[ctaylor738]

The only way I know how to do it is to disconnect the flex line from the steel line at the joint on the fender.  Then (I think) you need to take the small steel line off the caliper before removal. 

One thing I have found that will minimize the loss of brake fluid is to have some rubber "vacuum caps" on hand.  You can quickly slip them over the end of the steel line after you disconnect it.  You can buy an assortment for $10 on Amazon, and most auto parts stores also have them.

[GGR]

I think Harry wants to remove the caliper without disconnecting it from the line.

You can remove these two allen bolts and jiggle the caliper out upwards. But the metal line will end up out of shape and you will have a hard time getting the two allen bolts to catch the threads when you want to put everything back.

[Harry]

Thanks to both of you.  I was hoping to be able to remove without breaking the line apart but was concerned that doing so would indeed deform the small tubing.  I guess I'll try to do this without breaking the line but if it becomes obvious that disassembly is the best option, I'll be prepared to do that.

Thanks again!
Harry

[ja17]

Harry,

It is best to refresh the brake fluid on a regular basis anyway.