Upgrading front disc calipers worth it?

[68shortfleet]

Originally Posted by 70SBC10BOB

Piston area dictates clamping force (not the number of pistons). The more piston surface area, the more stopping power. However, you can have too much clamping force and cause brake lock up. Now you are skidding, not stopping.

Also, your single piston cast caliper is more ridged than an aluminum caliper. The aluminum caliper will also become weaker as temps increase (about 50% structural rigidity at 300 degrees) causing brake fade/excess pedal travel.

Good luck,
Bob

It's about time somebody actually brings up the piston area. I find it interesting that Wilwood sells these calipers as an upgrade, but the piston area is decreased from the stock caliper. Seems like a downgrade to me.
I bet they provide an excellent pedal feel with a stock bore master cylinder though.

I do suppose I could have done the math wrong, so I would be happy to hear what others come up with.

And yes, the aluminum could also become an issue depending on how you are using them.

It is possible to get brake pads with a larger braking contact surface. Using front pads for a 94-94 Impala SS gets you a larger pad that was factory designed for the D52 style calipers.