| Corvette Brake Calipers, High Performance
Brake Pads Caliper & Support
There are two main types of calipers: Floating
calipers and fixed calipers. There are other configurations but these are the
most popular. Calipers must be rebuilt or replaced if they show signs of
leaking brake fluid.
Caliper
Single Piston Floating Calipers are the most popular and
also least costly to manufacture and service. A floating caliper "floats" or
moves in a track in its support so that it can center itself over the rotor. As
you apply brake pressure, the hydraulic fluid pushes in two directions. It
forces the piston against the inner pad, which in turn pushes against the rotor.
It also pushes the caliper in the opposite direction against the outer pad,
pressing it against the other side of the rotor. Floating calipers are also
available on some vehicles with two pistons mounted on the same side. Two piston
floating calipers are found on more expensive cars and can provide an improved
braking "feel". Four Piston Fixed Calipers are mounted
rigidly to the support and are not allowed to move. Instead, there are two
pistons on each side that press the pads against the rotor. Four piston
calipers have a better feel and are more efficient, but are more expensive to
produce and cost more to service. This type of caliper is usually found on
more expensive luxury and high performance cars. Brake Pads
There
are two brake pads on each caliper. They are constructed of a metal "shoe" with
the lining riveted or bonded to it. The pads are mounted in the
caliper, one on each side of the rotor. Brake linings used to be made
primarily of asbestos because of its heat absorbing properties and quiet
operation; however, due to health risks, asbestos has been outlawed, so new
materials are now being used. Brake pads wear out with use and must be
replaced periodically. There are many types and qualities of pads available. The
differences have to do with brake life (how long the new pads will last) and
noise (how quiet they are when you step on the brake). Harder linings tend to
last longer and stop better under heavy use but they may produce an irritating
squeal when they are applied. Technicians that work on brakes usually have a
favorite pad that gives a good compromise that their customers can live
with. Brake pads should be checked for wear
periodically. If the lining wears down to the metal brake shoe, then you will
have a "Metal-to-Metal" condition where the shoe rubs directly against the rotor
causing severe damage and loss of braking efficiency. Some brake pads come with
a "brake warning sensor" that will emit a squealing noise when the pads are worn
to a point where they should be changed. This noise will usually be heard
when your foot is off the brake and disappear when you step on the brake.
If you hear this noise, have your brakes checked as soon as
possible. | 
