Date: Wed, 10 Aug 2011 16:45:51 -0700
Reply-To: BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Eurospec "Big Brake" kit.
In-Reply-To: <2CB48C75E7C840A68B9BFB777827C7F6@troyb5bff49d63>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Troy,
Allow me to make some minor corrections.
1) the hubs for 2wd on the kits in question are specific to the SA version of the Vanagon. they are not machined down rotors as some homemade kits. Syncro's already have a separate hub so none of those are included in the kits.
2) i recently made some reference to Audi rotors machined to a smaller diameter. perhaps that might have added to the confusion.
3) the Eurospec big brake kits are a relative bolt-on in both the early versions and the present version.
4) as for pricing, try breaking down pricing based on new parts prices as it might make more sense. I see new calipers selling or about $150 each from the dealer. Discs another $100-$150 for a pair. Hubs are about $100 a pair. Then there's front wheel bearings. What? Maybe another $100? Sure you can get parts for less. But you couldn't get them cheap consistently.
5) there is a good chance GW is selling a kit from Eurospec. They are, afterall, a Eurospec dealer as well. I saw an ad my a local (to me) dealer for $600. That doesn't sound too bad IMHO.
BenT
sent from my electronic leash
On Aug 10, 2011, at 11:47 AM, Troy <colorworks@GCI.NET> wrote:
> <<I'm wondering why would a break kit cost 1/10 of a car?
>
> Why are those kits so expensive ?>>
>
> I think one of the reasons the cost is higher is machining. From what I understand the rotors are turned down to form hubs, and while some of the parts are from Audi's, I don't believe they are direct bolt on, but not sure there. I believe the kit from Go Westy is a direct bolt on, but is imported from South Africa and produced in presumably small quantities. I don't exactly think there's a huge demand for these kits in general, so in some ways were fortunate to even have them available. Reminds me of the limited slip differentials that are available. Great product, but damn expensive.
>
> So, back to the original question. If anyone has installed this particular brand of Big Brakes, I'd appreciate hearing about your experience. In the interim, I have contacted Van Cafe' to see if they can shed some light on the situation.
>
> Troy