TRW · Part number GDB101 · NZ$108.00 incl. GST
Right, for those classic European beauties like your Mercedes-Benz Pagode 280 SL or Porsche 356 C 1600 SC, brake pads are the absolute business – they're the unsung heroes that turn all that speed into safe, controlled stopping power, keeping those vintage driving dynamics spot-on. TRW? Yeah, they're a top-notch choice CARFIX proudly stocks.
NZ$108.00 including GST. Part number GDB101.
Brake Pad Replacement: Keepin' Your Classic Safely on the Road!
> Alright, let's talk about those essential bits that bring your pride and joy to a halt: brake pads. They're friction materials, plain and simple, that clamp down on your brake discs. Think of them as the unsung heroes that wear themselves out so your classic can keep rolling safely. Over time, especially with the unique driving patterns of a vintage car – maybe less frequent, but often more spirited – these pads just get tired. If you let them go too long, you're not just looking at dodgy stopping power, but potentially a whole heap more damage to your braking system.
Symptoms That Led You Here
• Reduced braking performance or increased stopping distances.
• Squealing, grinding, or metallic noises when braking.
• Vibration through the brake pedal.
• A soft or spongy brake pedal feel.
• Visible wear on the brake pads (less than 3mm of friction material remaining).
Will it pass WOF?
No, worn brake pads are a critical safety failure. Vehicles with brake pads worn below the manufacturer's minimum thickness (typically 1.5mm to 3mm, depending on the vehicle) or those exhibiting excessive noise, scoring, or uneven wear will fail a New Zealand Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection.
DIY or Workshop?
Difficulty rating: 5/10 (Moderate)
Estimated time: 1-2 hours per axle (for experienced DIYers)
Tools required: Jack, jack stands, wheel nut wrench, C-clamp or brake caliper piston compressor, spanner/socket set, torque wrench, brake cleaner, wire brush, and potentially a brake fluid bleeder kit.
Expert Recommendation
Replacing brake pads is fundamental to vehicle safety and performance. Worn pads compromise stopping power, increase the risk of accidents, and can lead to more expensive damage to brake discs and calipers. We recommend the TRW brake pads for their proven quality and performance, especially for classic European models where maintaining original specifications and feel is important. Bob @ CARFIX is always on hand to help you work out exactly what part you need for your classic Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, or Volkswagen. Make sure you head over to Bob's Shop for a chat!
Fitment Notes
These brake pads are suitable for a wide range of classic European vehicles, including the MERCEDES-BENZ PAGODE 280 SL (1968-1971), VOLKSWAGEN 1500;1600 (1961-1973), MERCEDES-BENZ HECKFLOSSE 220 SB (1959-1965), MERCEDES-BENZ /8 220 (1968-1973), MERCEDES-BENZ SL 450 SLC (1975-1979), PORSCHE 356 C 1600 SC (1963-1965), MERCEDES-BENZ SL 350 SLC (1972-1976), BEDFORD CHEVANNE (1976-1980), VOLVO 140 (1968-1974), and ALFA ROMEO GIULIA 1600 Super (1974-1978). Always cross-reference with your vehicle's specific year, make, and model to ensure correct fitment, as variations can occur even within the same model range.
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🛠️ Bob's Pro Tip: Do the Job Right!
> If you're swapping out these parts on your vehicle 123, don't skimp on fresh rotors. Check out our compatible TRW Disc Brake Rotors (SKU DF1573S) to ensure a perfect bed-in and get the job done properly first time!
🧰 What Else You'll Need:
• Safety First: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always secure it on heavy-duty safety jack stands.
• Brake Dust Protection: Brakes get incredibly dirty. Keep a pack of Nitrile Gloves handy to protect your hands from stubborn brake dust.
• Clean and Prep: Use a high-quality Brake Cleaner spray to blast away stubborn dust, oil, and road grime from the caliper assembly and new rotors before reassembly.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin smear of high-temperature caliper grease to the pad backing plates and slide pins (keep it off the pad friction material!) to prevent squeals and ensure smooth caliper operation.