Because the rotors are a larger diameter, the calipers mount further out as well. They will rub against the wheel if you use a 14" wheel. As to the benefit, it is easier to stop a spinning object if you grab it further out. Yes, if you have a larger swept area, that too will help, but by simply using a larger radius where you apply the clamping power, it is easier.
On Feb 19, 2006, at 3:00 AM, Robert Smythe wrote: > Forgive my usual ignorance but I dont have both sets of parts, > stock and SA > caliper/discs staring me in the face. > > If it is the case that the pistons are the same, the pads/swept > area is the > same, is the only "bigness" to the SA brake system the vented > rotor? There > must be more to it, if the brake disc doesnt have a 0.5" larger > radius, why > does one need 15" wheels? > > Robert > 90 MV |
Please note - During the past 17 years of operation, several gigabytes of
Vanagon mail messages have been archived. Searching the entire collection
will take up to five minutes to complete. Please be patient!
Return to the archives @ gerry.vanagon.com
The vanagon mailing list archives are copyright (c) 1994-2011, and may not be reproduced without the express written permission of the list administrators. Posting messages to this mailing list grants a license to the mailing list administrators to reproduce the message in a compilation, either printed or electronic. All compilations will be not-for-profit, with any excess proceeds going to the Vanagon mailing list.
Any profits from list compilations go exclusively towards the management and operation of the Vanagon mailing list and vanagon mailing list web site.