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Old May 25th 2014, 11:52
H2OSB H2OSB is online now
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Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: Modesto, CA
Posts: 197
914 front brakes on a 1303 and other options

I know there are all of the arguments that 914 brakes are not enough of an upgrade over stock 1303 brakes to be worth it, however, seeing as how my car is an American version and has drum brakes, I'm exploring my options.

Are there any adapters out there that allow front 914 calipers to bolt up and be properly centered on a 1303? Do the late 914 rotors fit straight onto a Super Beetle spindle (I prefer the late rotors with the hub-centric ring for obvious reasons...I found a source for these where the guy will re-drill to 5 on 130).

Will the slightly thicker type 3 rotors work with the typical KG calipers? Though I realize just swapping rotors does NOT increase brake capability, the slightly increased thermal capacity of the type 3 rotors should allow, I would think, just that one or two more autocross runs before brake fade kicks in.

There have been some discussions in other places about brake balance. It has been said installing n/a 944 brakes front and rear, on a Beetle, gives a huge front brake bias. Can anyone suggest a F/R set up that is well balanced but not huge overkill? I have seen it suggested to equalize the brakes, A2 (mk2 to most of you) 2.0L 16V GTI FRONT calipers can be used in place of the single pot n/a 944 REAR calipers. This gives calipers, front and rear with 56mm pistons. Somehow, the idea of having the same size brakes both front and rear unsettles me, but I hear it works on a Beetle.

I'm on the verge of simply purchasing front and rear kits such as the front set up from Topline and rear set up by CBPerformance (the one with 914 rotors). I suspect I'll be perfectly happy with them, however, I'm concerned my planned engine swap (unadulterated EJ22) will provide enough power to be right at the top end of what the stock brakes can handle.
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johnL (aka H2OSB)
'74 1303, Outlaw sedan (with a GL flavor)

Last edited by H2OSB; May 25th 2014 at 12:10.
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