Upgrading from 11" to 12" front rotors

**javaxc70** · 08-10-2011, 11:28 AM

I have just picked up a set of 12" rotors for my 01, does anyone know the caliper bracket required to make this work? I am doing a brake swap out, and want to do a little upgrade for my new DD. I have reached a wall in my searches... Thanks!

**billr99** · 08-10-2011, 11:49 AM

Originally Posted by javaxc70

I have just picked up a set of 12" rotors for my 01, does anyone know the caliper bracket required to make this work? I am doing a brake swap out, and want to do a little upgrade for my new DD. I have reached a wall in my searches... Thanks!

According to VIDA, the bracket (titled a "retainer") available for 15in wheels (obviously 11in discs) is PN 8251318. For 16in wheels its PN 8251316. In the 2010 version of VIDA, all references to the two brake options are listed as those for the 15in wheel and 16in wheel. I would suggest you double-check, these numbers before you lay down your money, just to be safe.

BTW, I did this mod on my 850R and although it was an improvement, it was not huge. On that car, it also shifted the brake balance a bit more to the front which actually went a way that I preferred. I'd be interested to hear your feedback after the mod to see how much an improvement you get.

Cheers,

Bill

**javaxc70** · 08-13-2011, 07:46 AM

Bill,

Thanks for the reply, i will search and see if i cant find those for a reasonable price. So far the cheapest place for caliper retainer has been around 16 a piece. I will keep all posted once i order the part and receive it. Thanks!

**billr99** · 08-13-2011, 03:43 PM

Originally Posted by javaxc70

Bill,

Thanks for the reply, i will search and see if i cant find those for a reasonable price. So far the cheapest place for caliper retainer has been around 16 a piece. I will keep all posted once i order the part and receive it. Thanks!

$16. That's probably about right, give or take. I got mine from FCP Groton, but it is an item that you have to e-mail or call to get a price. If you do that mention this site and I believe they'll give you a 10-15% discount. Also as I recall when you get the brackets you also get the associated hardware like the pins, boots, etc. so at $16 a side, it's pretty reasonable considering all that you get. But check to verify as I got mine a few years ago.

Cheers,

Bill

**javaxc70** · 08-16-2011, 03:39 PM

I just wanted to report back that this simple brake upgrade works!

Here are the steps required to do this:

1) Pick up a 12" rotor from any reputable source that fits your model year; in my case a 12" rotor for 2001.
2) Purchase the bracket for 12" rotors; I got mine from rock auto under caliper bracket. The part number on mine was A-1 Cardone 141607 and was labeled ATE 503. Price was $16 per bracket and about $40 shipped.
3) No need to replace brake pads, caliper, or other parts. Simply swap out the caliper bracket and rotor and you now have upgraded "budget" performance brakes!

There is less brake pedal required to stop under heavy braking.

All and all I consider this to be a great "budget" upgrade!

**ocean 506** · 07-05-2014, 08:28 PM

Caliper brackets are no longer available aftermarket as far as I can tell. I ordered mine through Tasca Volvo along with the rotors. Here are a couple of photos to show size difference.