Hi - I have a 1991 1LE that recently failed its annual test in the UK due to sticking calipers.

Being a 1LE I realised it needed specific calipers so I've been trying to order a full set of replacement calipers, disks and pads - the only place I could find with all the parts listed (YearOne) unfortunately hasn't been able to get them into stock for 4 months - although they are still trying.

Do you guys have any recommendations for how to source replacement parts ? I would have ideally like to stick with the 1LE original (or at least 1LE specific aftermarket) parts but it is looking like I may have to go for a full aftermarket replacement.
If I did go the full replacement route is there any place/anyone you could recommend to provide a full set ? Obviously my local mechanic is not going to be aware of any 1LE specifics so I'll have to solve any compatibility issues up-front in the order.

I could try and get the calipers rebuilt over here but I assume sourcing any rebuild parts would also be a fun exercise.

For my other American cars Summit Racing etc provide an amazing service and super fast shipping, this 1LE is proving difficult to supply ;-)

thanks
Andy

 

Do you have access to RockAuto over there? They sell them and appear to have them in stock.

 

https://www.hawksmotorsports.com/198...urce=Springbot

 

If it's the rear calipers that are sticking, then 93-97 4thgen rear calipers are interchangeable and an option.

Rock Auto lists remanufactured front and rear calipers for 3rdgen Performance Package/Heavy Duty brakes. It also lists repair kits. You'll have to remove the old calipers anyway, so just rebuild them. If they're really getting scarce, then you'll be better off keeping your factory originals in good working order. Calipers aren't complicated, and youtube has everything covered. It would be a lot cheaper and quicker than buying new calipers, waiting for them to arrive, then installing them.

The hoses may or may not need replacing, but if removing/replacing calipers anyway, it would be an ideal time to replace the hoses too. Just be sure not to let the master cylinder run dry during the job.

While they're disassembled, clean the aluminum calipers with this stuff, and they'll look brand new again. It's a blend of acids, for aluminum only. Don't use it on the steel hardware or iron brackets. Clean those parts with your preferred degreaser. Of course, if your calipers have been painted, then nevermind this stuff lol.


Here's a before and after with that Aluminum Brightener. These are off of a 95 C4 Corvette. Same calipers as 3rdgen, but not quite 100% interchangeable, due to the configuration of the e-brake hardware.

 

Becareful ordering replacement calipers, (esp if you're sending the stocks in for replacement) a lot of places are sending cheap china copies.

Have you replaced all 5 of the rubber hoses? Bad hoses and stuck guide pins where i see most of the sticking failures

 

What TTOP 350 said... Those hoses deteriorate and collapse causing the calipers to stick. Could be your only issue, they are cheap and easy to get, and if they are old need done anyway,

 

Thanks all - thanks to the replies above and a couple of offline contacts I managed to find 3 places that have or can source most of the parts so its looking up!

The car has already been off the road for 4 months waiting for the parts so it makes sense for me to try the hoses first and then go for the full replacement stuff if that doesn't solve it.

 

If you get in a pinch get ahold of American Technique, they are near London. Excellent guy and is a third gen whisperer. His name is Richard Hogg.

 

Just a note to say that Scott at https://bigbrakeupgrade.com/ and Ed at http://www.flynbye.com were both super responsive and helpful, highly recommended.