Upgrade those Brakes
An easy way to upgrade the front brakes of older cars.
A pdf version of this article can be downloaded here...
Upgrade those brakes
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This article looks at an easy way to upgrade the front brakes of older cars whose
front suspension is based on the Triumph GT6 (or Vitesse). It should be pointed
out that the standard P16, two pot calipers are, when properly maintained, a very
able design as fitted to all exotica of the time: Triumph GT6 and TR’s, Lotus, TVR,
Ginetta and, of course, Marcos. |
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However if you still want more stopping power how about the Princess /Ambassador
four pot calipers, which not only have a better pressure distribution
across the
pad, but also the pad has a larger sweep area too! More contact more stopping power!
Numerous extras are available too to increase performance still further such as EBC Kevlar pads and EBC Grooved disc’s, or with a little extra modification vented
discs! |
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Let's start by looking at the standard conversion that is a little more involved
than the layman may let you believe, but not too drastic! The Princess calipers
will bolt directly to the Spitfire vertical links which incorporate the caliper
mounting lugs. However, we have the larger bearing GT6 uprights which have a separate
brake mounting ring, typically the spacing of the caliper mounting lugs is not the
same as the Princess caliper. The solution is to fit the square shaped mounting
ring from the 1600 Vitesse or Herald when converted to front disc brakes, as opposed
to the round mounting ring originally fitted to the GT6 and 2000 Vitesse. This is
an easy bolt on conversion. The Princess four pot caliper can then be bolted direct
to this square mounting ring!
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Grooved discs are a straight swap but vented discs require splitting the calipers
and reassembling with spacers, probably beyond most DIY enthusiasts. That should
give you something to think about, but remember there is no substitute for a properly
maintained braking system! |
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Neil Hicks |