06-07 WRX 4 pot brakes... FIT!

[the_paynter]

Well I finally took some time yesterday and tried my 4pot brake calipers / pads I had laying around on the SVX.

In short.... they DO fit.

In LONG...


The Caliper bolts on fine. The notch for the rotor needs to be sanded down (width wise) VERY little. (I did it with a piece of 80 grit sand paper) for the rotor to fit width wide. (it fits on without doing this but the rotor will rub on the caliper... you could just do this and drive down the road and it will fix it self but thats a little ghetto)

NOW... The big issue is you NEED to go to a slighly larger rotor (about 1cm bigger in diameter) and there is the proper amount of room on the caliper to allow this bigger rotor. You CAN use ur stock rotor but the pad sticks about 3/4cm over the top of the rotor. If you did use the stock rotors you would have to REMOVE this part of the brake pad as it would hang over as it wears.

If anyone can tell me a slighty larger rotor that fits the SVX hub i will try it out.

Pictures to come when i get home from class

I will also put up the part numbers

[Green1995SVX]

How is this possible? I personally tried fitting these, and they weren't even close.

[the_paynter]

How is this possible? I personally tried fitting these, and they weren't even close.

I had them on yesterday. They most definitly fit.

Im refering to the red ones not the BREMBOS... the Brembos definitly DO NOT fit, tried that first

[BoxerFanatic]

This is very interesting... Those Subaru brakes are reported to be pretty good. I believe they were standard fitment on the late 90's 22B STI GC-chassis Impreza.

Any hope on the corresponding 2-piston rear brake calipers? are they anywhere close to fitting?

I wonder if the STI discs, or perhaps Tribeca discs, both being 5x114.3, would work for the increased diameter... but that is a common hub pattern, there are probably discs from another application that match SVX's dimensions, plus a bit of diameter... just a matter of finding them.

[sicksubie]

check the DBA catalogue

[SVXRide]

pics would probably help here:cool:
-Bill

[sicksubie]

Get home from class?? Ditch class and get pics up 5 minutes ago... LOL

[taylorbr]

I wonder if the STI discs, or perhaps Tribeca discs, both being 5x114.3, would work for the increased diameter... but that is a common hub pattern, there are probably discs from another application that match SVX's dimensions, plus a bit of diameter... just a matter of finding them.

I've read theories on Legacy Central that the Tribeca rears would fit on our cars, but I've yet to have the time/money to try this out.

[the_paynter]

i never thought of tribeca discs... they are a little smaller then STI ones and bigger then the SVX discs... have to grab a pair of these and try them out. uploading pictures now

[the_paynter]

Here ya go. Took it for a ride like this and it worked great but i took them back off until i get a proper size rotor

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/4371/brake1.jpg
http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/838/july09050.jpg
http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/383/july09054.jpg
http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/8032/july09055.jpg
http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/8101/july09056.jpg
http://img139.imageshack.us/i/july09058.jpg/
http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/7955/july09059.jpg

[BoxerFanatic]

Wow, the disc looks barely narrow enough to fit through the caliper.

So perhaps as well as a bit more diameter, a mm or two less disc width might be good, too. :D

[the_paynter]

Wow, the disc looks barely narrow enough to fit through the caliper.

So perhaps as well as a bit more diameter, a mm or two less disc width might be good, too. :D

Thats what I was saying... it needs to be sanded down. This is PRE sanded, these were taken before any modification has happened. Ill being doing a full install write up with pictures when i install them.

I had to do the same thing when i put 06 2 pots on my old STI in the winter (winter set up)

[the_paynter]

Well i looked it up and the tribeca rotors are 12.4inchs (aka 315mm) Stock SVX rotors are 300mm i believe so this would give up an extra 1.5cm. This would increase the size of the rotor by 3/4 of a cm all the way around which should close up the gap a little. The only problem is the Tribeca rotors are suppose to be 30mms thick... where the SVX rotors are 26mms and already rub... dammit.

Well heres what I did FIND....

2004 Nissan Maxima (a34 model) has a 320mm rotor that is 26mm thick, its 5x114.3, and the bolt holes are 14mm (SVX is 13mm, i believe this play would be ok but correct me if im wrong)

[alltrac]

Maxima
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12042075.jpg
SVX
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12047014.JPG

[SilverSpear]

Maxima
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12042075.jpg
SVX
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12047014.JPG


Victor can you post the ones of the Subaru BAJA?

[STeeL25T]

Excellent work so far on this, I hope a rotor can be sourced. How much did those brakes cost you?

[BoxerFanatic]

Victor can you post the ones of the Subaru BAJA?

Doesn't baja have 5x100 bolt pattern?

The Maxima ones look decent, but the rotor hat height doesn't look the same, which will likely make it not fit.

320mm diameter and 24-25mm thickness, with the same hat dimensions (height, bolt pattern) as SVX would be something to look for.

The increase in diameter, and decrease in thickness would probably more than offset each other, in terms of thermal mass of the disc itself.

[the_paynter]

Yes the Baja is 5x100, it is based off the Legacy/outback.

Im going to give the maxima disc a try... if it doesnt fit, i will just return it. The difference in the hat makes it look like its not going to work though... dang :(

[SilverSpear]

Doesn't baja have 5x100 bolt pattern?

The Maxima ones look decent, but the rotor hat height doesn't look the same, which will likely make it not fit.

320mm diameter and 24-25mm thickness, with the same hat dimensions (height, bolt pattern) as SVX would be something to look for.

The increase in diameter, and decrease in thickness would probably more than offset each other, in terms of thermal mass of the disc itself.

The disc heights are approx the same as the SVX. The only difference are in the bolt patterns and the thickness...

Wonder how do aftermarket BBK for Bajas look like? :rolleyes:

[alltrac]

Baja turbo
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12047021.jpg
Baja non turbo
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12047018.jpg

[1986nate]

they're 5x100- wont work

[SilverSpear]

But when you order aftermarket BBK for BAJA, the thickness comes minimum at 30mm and the hub is interchangeable, so you get the 5x114.3 instead...

I think Wilwood BBK is a nice affordable choice...

[Boxersix]

Just match up a Willwood or Coleman rotor ring to a billet hat from wilwood and you'll have your rotors.

I can do that for you easy as I have teh 2009 wilwood catalog sitting here in front of me. All I need from you is the rotor offset that's required, the rest of the specs were listed in the previous posts above. Measure the offset from the INSIDE surface of the rotor where it meets the hub to the rear face of the rotors.

Also, what's the hubcentric diameter on these cars?

[SilverSpear]

Also, what's the hubcentric diameter on these cars?
58mm :):):):)

[alltrac]

they're 5x100- wont work
I was just ask to post the specs I could care less if they are 5x100

[the_paynter]

Just match up a Willwood or Coleman rotor ring to a billet hat from wilwood and you'll have your rotors.

I can do that for you easy as I have teh 2009 wilwood catalog sitting here in front of me. All I need from you is the rotor offset that's required, the rest of the specs were listed in the previous posts above. Measure the offset from the INSIDE surface of the rotor where it meets the hub to the rear face of the rotors.

Also, what's the hubcentric diameter on these cars?

If someone got him this information that would be awesome, I cant get at that until the weekend as im no wheres near a jack/tools while during the week but i can make a run to toronto on the weekend and do it

[siceclipse]

DSM wheels are 5x114.3

i dont know the size of the disks so if you can find that out...

good luck

[the_paynter]

I know the Evo IX is to big... ill check out a 99 GSX though

EDIT:

I checked it out... says an eclipse front rotor is 10.83", way to small..POWER SLOT makes a big brake rotor replacement for it thought that is 12.5", this is 317.5mm which is good.. as for width and hat size.. not sure yet

DSM wheels are 5x114.3

i dont know the size of the disks so if you can find that out...

good luck

[the_paynter]

2009 Acura TL uses a 5x114.3 bolt pattern in their 3.5L model.

The rotor size is 12.6"x1.1" ooooorrrrrr 320mm x 28mm.......

This might work... but 2 CM increase might be large. Doing the math though thats only 1cm added all the way around

Hat height anyone?

[sicksubie]

Can someone please go through the DBA catalogue already? Did you find anything BoxerSix?

[the_paynter]

If someone sends me the Dba catalog I'll look, the body work/ paint job has had my full attention over the past 2 weeks. it finally got sprayed copper red tonight but the shop didn't give us enough paint (idiots). the hood roof and front bumper need to be wetsanded and resprayed and i can't get back in the booth till Friday so I hav some free time (other then school)

[alltrac]

Can't get any info on 2009 TL but here is 2008 TL
http://images.wrenchead.com/smartpages/partinfo_resize/CEC/12040046.jpg

[sicksubie]

I think NeedforSpeed (Ron) has a DBA catalogue .. PM him maybe?

[Boxersix]

Can someone please go through the DBA catalogue already? Did you find anything BoxerSix?


Nobody has yet to PM me the OE rotor offset for the SVX. I've been knee deep into the Skyline and haven't had much time to dig up info myself yet.

As soon as I have the rotor offset I can look it all up in minutes. Inside mounting face out to either friction surface(inner or outer) will do :) I can piece a rotor setup from that.

[SilverSpear]

I dunno what exactly you want but here are the specs of the SVX rotors:

Front: Dia: 301.1mm, Height: 57mm, Thick: 28mm, Bolt Pattern: 5/114.3
Rear: Dia: 290mm, Height: 67.5mm, Thick: 10mm, Bolt Pattern: 5/114.3

By offset do you mean Height or Thickness?

[Boxersix]

Here is a simple diagram of exactly what is required for dimension of the offset, and how to measure it(with a digital caliper and new rotor off the car)

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o285/Boxxersix/rotor.jpg

[lhopp77]

I can get you in the ballpark from a Raceconcepts new slotted rotor using a dial caliper--not digital.

A=1.150-1.160 depending on where you measure (with a note--the disk is machined .015 deeper close to the bolt mountings where I could measure versus at the wear surface. So A is effectively 1.135-1.140 at the pad wear surface)

yy=.270-.275

The rotor is 1.11-1.125 thick at the pad contact surfaces.

Sorry I don't have an actual OEM that I can measure either new or used.

Hope that can get you started.

Using my measurements I would say the offset is .883 plus or minus .010

Lee

(Note--before edit I incorrectly applied the .015 difference in machine depth close to the hub center versus at the actual pad wear surface)

[AUSVX]

I might be a little late but if you're still looking for the correct disc dimensions, try a Lexus RX 4wd discs and other Toyotas that are 114.3

[Boxersix]

Well unfortunately there is no existing, bolt on rotor/hat in the aftermarket realm(wilwood, AP, alcon, etc) that'll suit. There are rotor rings that are of an exact fit(315 x 28mm) but would require a custom hat/bell.

I have no idea of the cost at this time, but I took a few minutes and made a bell in SW to fit an AP rotor ring(PN CP5000-220/221). Wilwood also has a similar fitment in the SRP series rings, but I'm not a hug fan of their durability when combined with a good pad(Performance friction, AP, etc).

Bell looks like this

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o285/Boxxersix/fgadfg.jpg

[the_paynter]

well.. the other solution is to cut out a 1/2 cm section of the caliper mounting points and then TIG them back together? Sounds logical to me?

[sicksubie]

cutting brake calipers mounting points off does not sit well with me.....

[sicksubie]

I need to contact Ron and see what he can find out from his DBA source....

[NeedForSpeed]

Okay, Go here:

http://www.dba.com.au/2006/catalogue_aust.asp

I've looked at this swap for a long time, would love to do it. I'm thinking the rear rotor from the Ford Territory might be the ticket, with minor mods, like a hub-centric ring. Being a Ford, spacing could be 5x4.5, perfect. Needs a bit of investigation.

See page 62, PN #2108 for specs.


I think NeedforSpeed (Ron) has a DBA catalogue .. PM him maybe?

[NeedForSpeed]

I sent you a PM.

See previous post about your rotor possibility.

well.. the other solution is to cut out a 1/2 cm section of the caliper mounting points and then TIG them back together? Sounds logical to me?

[sowise]

Has anything new come out of this thread? It looked pretty promising other than some issues with rotor size.

[the_paynter]

Has anything new come out of this thread? It looked pretty promising other than some issues with rotor size.

Still trying to get a rotor... i have no idea how to use those rotor guides so if anyone can figure one out post it up!

Caliper fits fine... just finding a rotor is the issue

[zavikan]

I have the 06 cat.

I am disappointed. How close does the 'height' need to be?

The only thing I found that was close was part #2650 Vented D:316 H: 56.7 thick:30 center hole: 58 Lug: 5 (unknown pattern)

Part# 2108 looks promising but the height is 59. the svx is 58. How close does this need to be? diam: 328 thick:26

I dont understand the dimentions exactly, so if some one could tell me which dimensions need to be EXACT on, and which ones I have some play room... that would be good. As well as how MUCH play room. I'll then list out the info I have.

I'll remain active on this as long as I'm not the only one trying. :)

Just tell me exactly what I need to look for.

AKA Diameter range/Height range/Thinkness range/center hole range in mm.

[sowise]

I started looking up rotor guides as well mostly from wilwood and I swear they give you everything but what you need to figure out fitment. It gave me a headache trying to figure out what it would take. I like the idea of these WRX brakes but I am still going to look at some of the other brake setups and see if I can find maybe a 4 pot front and 2 pot rear set up without having to go to a 13" rotor. I may even end up doing some ebay recycling (buy first and sell if it doesn't fit) once I find something that looks promising. Hopefully you will have some luck or a break through before I do lol.

[zavikan]

well if i had some sort of idea of clearances it would be so much easier. :rolleyes:

svx is a 57 height... is 56 ok? 58? hell, 55? 59?

300 mm diam is to little... is 320 to much? I really would think these would be easily answered questions for some one who has already looked at these calipers in person.

[zavikan]

why is this thread dead? no replys? seriously? I've been checking every day waiting for an answer so that I could delve into my DBA cat...and nothing. I personally think this thread is extremely exciting.

The problem with other big brake upgrades is the replacement rotors. I believe some one on here bought an SVX with the BBK already installed. Needed to get new rotors and it cost him like $200 each.

Wouldnt it be nice to get a conversion kit that is a big time upgrade and is CHEAP!! and possibly has parts available thru standard auto stores??

Plus, having the SUBARU logo on the caliper is snazzy....


JUST ENLIGHTEN ME AS TO WHAT TO LOOK FOR.

If my svx wasnt 6 hrs away in a garage behind 4 tons of stove pellets I would just do it myself.

[viking64]

really hoping have found what I believe to be a close replacement

used data from Disk Brakes Australia - dba.com.au

Lexus RX 330 looks to be PCD is 114.3 x 5 holes

Part Number: DBA 2702X _____Street Series
Part Type: Street Series Gold (cross-drilled & slotted)
Vehicle Fit: LEXUS -> RX 330 -> 3.3L V6 4WD + FWD (3/03 - on)
Part Details: DBA's street series GOLD slotted and cross-drilled rotors provide maximum cooling with an attractive, aggressive appearance.They are the perfect replacement rotor for the performance conscious street motorist.


(click to enlarge)
Front
Vented disc rotor
Front Disc Diameter Height Thickness Min. Thickness Center Hole Bolt Holes
mm 320 49.3 28 26 62 5
inch 12.6 1.94 1.1 1.02 2.44 5

Part Number: DBA 652 _____Street Series
Part Type: Street Series Standard
Vehicle Fit: SUBARU -> SVX -> SVX (3/92 - 8/97)
Part Details: DBA's street series standard replacement disc rotors are designed and manufactured to perform well under general street driving conditions.


(click to enlarge)
Front
Vented disc rotor
Front Disc Diameter Height Thickness Min. Thickness Center Hole Bolt Holes
mm 301.1 57 28 26 58 5
inch 11.85 2.24 1.1 1.02 2.28 5

hopefully this is close enough to get some sexy calipers - can anyone look into this to confirm they may work?

cheers
bruce

[sowise]

Brakes are not high up on my list since I have pretty much pulled the whole drive train out of the car. I was however looking at the subaru double pot rears and wondering if they could be made to fit with or without a change in rotor.
As far as the rotor measurements it is very possible the two piece set ups could be found to work you just have figure out the size you want and order the right hat for it. I too am following the thread but until everything else is back together I am afraid I won't be able to contribute much.

[TomsSVX]

Brakes are not high up on my list since I have pretty much pulled the whole drive train out of the car. I was however looking at the subaru double pot rears and wondering if they could be made to fit with or without a change in rotor.
As far as the rotor measurements it is very possible the two piece set ups could be found to work you just have figure out the size you want and order the right hat for it. I too am following the thread but until everything else is back together I am afraid I won't be able to contribute much.

Rears shoudl be easy. Sti Backing plate should bolt right up to the SVX rear hub... Just switch plates and bam... Mounting for an STi rear rotor and caliper.

The fronts on the other hand are not so simple. If wilwood makes a 5x114.3 hat for their bbk's it would be as simple as making new mounting brackets with the right heights.

Its gonna take a little ching to make it happen but it is not impossible. Trouble is, no one will put up the money to do the brakes the right way, rather run around in circles trying to find stock components which will prob cost nearly as much in the long run anyway:confused:

I for one have not found a reason to upgrade the brakes. If you change the fluid regularly and use quality rotors and pads they work well enough to lock up 275 hoosiers... More tire than 99.9% of you will ever use. Remember its the tires that make the brakes work.

Tom

[SVXRide]

I for one have not found a reason to upgrade the brakes. If you change the fluid regularly and use quality rotors and pads they work well enough to lock up 275 hoosiers... More tire than 99.9% of you will ever use. Remember its the tires that make the brakes work.

Tom

Truth.:cool:
-Bill

[sowise]

I know wilwood and baer brakes make hats that are 5x114.3 what I didn't spend time figuring out was the hat dimensions as far as height etc. but from what I had been reading it didn't seem like it would be to difficult to find the right hat. I think calling them would be the best bet since you can talk to someone who can pull up exactly the dimensions we would need.

Ok Tom you convinced me on the rear brakes so I purchased the set of double pot rears with the subaru logo on them in red (I kinda wish I got the black ones but they weren't available). So these will actually go on a shelf until I am ready to get to the brakes.

If I can find a set of fronts that are also red with subaru logo 4 pot that is not too high in cost I will purchase those for my future upgrade as well.

[sowise]

Ok I gave in and believe I ordered the correct STi backing plate part from Subaru parts.com hopefully this will allow me to fit up the 2 pot rear calipers. Hopefully this works out. I am also trying to find out if some of the adjustable links and trailing arms for the STi's will fit the rear suspension for upgrades. Anyway I will post when I get around to replacing the backing plate after it arrives.

[michael]

I was checking part #s for legacy trailing arms and got the same as svx. I'm going to assume they are the same. Ebay has some nice adjustables from Megan (I think) around $170.

[sowise]

Yes I was looking at the Megan and Perrin stuff also some of the Agency Power suspension parts. I think the adjustable trailing arms and links would be NICE!
I am sure not everything will work but it sure looks like most of it is capable of fitting.

[dromano]

Well I finally took some time yesterday and tried my 4pot brake calipers / pads I had laying around on the SVX.

In short.... they DO fit.

In LONG...


The Caliper bolts on fine. The notch for the rotor needs to be sanded down (width wise) VERY little. (I did it with a piece of 80 grit sand paper) for the rotor to fit width wide. (it fits on without doing this but the rotor will rub on the caliper... you could just do this and drive down the road and it will fix it self but thats a little ghetto)

NOW... The big issue is you NEED to go to a slighly larger rotor (about 1cm bigger in diameter) and there is the proper amount of room on the caliper to allow this bigger rotor. You CAN use ur stock rotor but the pad sticks about 3/4cm over the top of the rotor. If you did use the stock rotors you would have to REMOVE this part of the brake pad as it would hang over as it wears.

If anyone can tell me a slighty larger rotor that fits the SVX hub i will try it out.

Pictures to come when i get home from class

I will also put up the part numbers

You got ghettos in Ontario?????????????:lol:

[the_paynter]

sorry guys i have been busy as hell dealing with other things.

I will give that lexus rotor a try.

I am looking into the 4pot brakes because they are a cheap upgrade (my cost on a new caliper is like $140cnd or something, and I already had them on the shelf).

The route I am going, I will need bigger brakes, does willwood offer 6pots for the SVX?

[zavikan]

and here I am sitting on a DBA cat and no one wants to tell me variences.... :confused::confused::confused::confused:

[the_paynter]

and here I am sitting on a DBA cat and no one wants to tell me variences.... :confused::confused::confused::confused:

i dont know what they are, im at work

[RoughSilver92]

Maybe I'm crazy but what about finding a pad that fits the sti caliper and svx rotor. Any chance of that?

[the_paynter]

its cheaper to buy a wilwood BBK then do brembos

[sowise]

Sorry I don't have any new updates on the rear 2 pot brakes I am still waiting on the backing plates. (I know you guys aren't specifically waiting on this).

The rear is my current focus but I plan to get around to the fronts eventually and if this thread doesn't have any updates by then I will post what I figure out .

[zavikan]

there was some other person who aquired a car that had the wilwood kit on them. When it came time to replace the rotors, he ended out forking out some stupid amount of cash to have them replaced. I have no problem spending $$$ for an upgrade, but not for one that is specifically designed to wear out!

[STeeL25T]

A friends GTO came with Willwoods on them with a warped rotor and he priced a new one at somewhere around 500 dollars or some other ridiculous amount. Eff that.

[RoughSilver92]

So I just went through the whole international catalog, and the best match I could find was the 2006 wrx with 316mm diameter, 56.7 height 30mm thick. These are the rotors that go with the caliper in question so it makes sense. Why hasn't anyone tried this rotor that came from the same car as the calipers?
Was this the year subaru switched lug pattern? If so could the rotor be drilled for the correct lug pattern? I've heard of it done with drums.

[BoxerFanatic]

2004 WRX STI was 5x100, as are ALL other wrxs and legacys, outbacks, bajas, and foresters, IIRC. including the 2006-2007 WRXs with these brakes.

2005-current WRX STI was 5x114, but also were equipped with brembos from the factory, so likely have a different disc.

The 2007 WRX STI Limited had black brembos, I believe... not the subaru logo'd brakes.

[NeedForSpeed]

So I just went through the whole international catalog, and the best match I could find was the 2006 wrx with 316mm diameter, 56.7 height 30mm thick. These are the rotors that go with the caliper in question so it makes sense. Why hasn't anyone tried this rotor that came from the same car as the calipers?
Was this the year subaru switched lug pattern? If so could the rotor be drilled for the correct lug pattern? I've heard of it done with drums.

The four piston SUBARU caliper is designed for 25mm thick rotors.

I recently had some rotors redrilled, expect to pay $20-$25 per rotor.

[sowise]

Small update on the rear 2 pots.
I received the WRX backing plates I will need to press the wheel bearings out to mount them (I didn't expect that so going to be a bit longer before full fit). So far appears to be a perfect match for mounting on the SVX knuckle. I mounted the rear 2pot to the WRX backing plate and set the SVX rotor in place to see what kind of fit up there was. The dust shield on the WRX dust shield is bigger than ours by approx. 1/2" all the way around. However the rotor looks like it fits into the caliper fine and will be a nice fit. I will know more for sure when I press out the bearings and mount everything correctly.

[RoughSilver92]

The four piston SUBARU caliper is designed for 25mm thick rotors.

I recently had some rotors redrilled, expect to pay $20-$25 per rotor.

I dunno why the dba catalog says its a 30mm when a 30mm rotor wouldn't fit.

[NeedForSpeed]

I dunno why the dba catalog says its a 30mm when a 30mm rotor wouldn't fit.

The big rotor is for the 4-piston BREMBO caliper, not the SUBARU caliper. The catalog is correct.

[RoughSilver92]

The big rotor is for the 4-piston BREMBO caliper, not the SUBARU caliper. The catalog is correct.

I see now, had to go back and have another look. So the situation is that the caliper bolts slightly farther out on the svx.

[Boxersix]

Small update on the rear 2 pots.
I received the WRX backing plates I will need to press the wheel bearings out to mount them (I didn't expect that so going to be a bit longer before full fit). So far appears to be a perfect match for mounting on the SVX knuckle. I mounted the rear 2pot to the WRX backing plate and set the SVX rotor in place to see what kind of fit up there was. The dust shield on the WRX dust shield is bigger than ours by approx. 1/2" all the way around. However the rotor looks like it fits into the caliper fine and will be a nice fit. I will know more for sure when I press out the bearings and mount everything correctly.

Which backing plates did you purchase? I ask because the WRX's use a smaller bearing carrier in the rear than the STi's, and the SVX and Sti share the same spindle/carrier dimensionality in the back. You may find that the WRX backing plates will not bolt to the SVX knuckle assembly without some machining and welding.

I ran into this very issue with my WRX trying to swap in a six speed Sti gearbox, but retain the smaller WRX brakes so that I could fit my 15" rally wheels(which do not fit over the Sti brakes front or rear) To use the R180 in the back of a WRX you need the rear knuckles as you cannot press Sti hubs in WRX bearings(to use the larger R180 splined halfshafts)

You CAN make the backing plates fit if they don't immediately bolt up to the SVX rear knuckles but you'd need accent to a welder, and a plasma cutter makes the cutting far easier.

[sowise]

Here are the parts I ordered, everything visibly matches up I just have not pressed out the bearings at this time yet (half deciding to buy a press or not). I think it will be another week atleast before I get to work on this portion of the vehicle again.

26704FE000 Rear suspension, Brake components, Splash shield, Splash shield Right - Disc brakes W/wrx sti - Disc brakes W/wrx sti 1

26704FE010 Rear suspension, Brake components, Splash shield, Splash shield Left - Disc brakes W/wrx sti - Disc brakes

[NeedForSpeed]

Here are the parts I ordered, everything visibly matches up I just have not pressed out the bearings at this time yet (half deciding to buy a press or not). I think it will be another week atleast before I get to work on this portion of the vehicle again.

26704FE000 Rear suspension, Brake components, Splash shield, Splash shield Right - Disc brakes W/wrx sti - Disc brakes W/wrx sti 1

26704FE010 Rear suspension, Brake components, Splash shield, Splash shield Left - Disc brakes W/wrx sti - Disc brakes


If those are STI shields, as described, those should mount Brembo calipers. Have you confirmed whether or not the SUBARU caliper will bolt onto these shields? Just asking, I don't have any first-hand knowledge of this swap.

[sowise]

Yeh I mounted the subaru calipers to it the only difference that I can see between the SVX and the WRX/STi is the width of the mounting perches for the calipers. Since I have to remove the wheel bearing to bolt them to the knuckle assembly I wanted to see how the rotor would fit so I centered it on the backing plate. It fit in the caliper nicely though won't know exact fit until it can be fully mounted. That is also when I noticed the dust shield on the WRX/STi plates is larger by about 1/2" around the circumference. I can maybe post pictures this weekend if people are interested in the way it looks without having done the bearing yet.

[sowise]

Wow this thread was buried maybe the Mods can move it to brake upgrade section to be found easier.

I have photos of the rear brakes with new backing plate mounted and wrx 2 pot rear calipers but no photobucket account to link to them. I think stock rotors will work perfectly fine I need to order new rotors and rear bearings before I will officially be happy.

I know I kinda hijacked this thread since it was supposed to be about the fronts but those are also on my list of brake upgrades

Never mind the comments about moving this thread, I swear I checked in brake mods first and there was only one thread in there and now this thread is in there too? hmm confusing....

[TomsSVX]

Rears shoudl be easy. Sti Backing plate should bolt right up to the SVX rear hub... Just switch plates and bam... Mounting for an STi rear rotor and caliper.

The fronts on the other hand are not so simple. If wilwood makes a 5x114.3 hat for their bbk's it would be as simple as making new mounting brackets with the right heights.

Its gonna take a little ching to make it happen but it is not impossible. Trouble is, no one will put up the money to do the brakes the right way, rather run around in circles trying to find stock components which will prob cost nearly as much in the long run anyway:confused:

I for one have not found a reason to upgrade the brakes. If you change the fluid regularly and use quality rotors and pads they work well enough to lock up 275 hoosiers... More tire than 99.9% of you will ever use. Remember its the tires that make the brakes work.

Tom


Seth, thanks for confirming my suspicion that the rears will bolt right up.

On a side note, you did realize I sent the core return payment correct?

Tom

[sowise]

yes the core return arrived fine thank you and thanks for the new flex plate.

You were correct about the backing plate so thanks for the suggestion it was worth trying I think. With the Bontrager Works rear sway bar and the megan racing lateral links and trailing arm I think this is the last decent upgrade to do for the rear.

Ok photobucket is set up so here are some links ... hope it works ...

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/sowise/IMG00149-20091017-1655.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/sowise/IMG00011-20091219-1538.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/sowise/IMG00009-20091219-1538.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j298/sowise/IMG00152-20091018-1707.jpg

[SVXRide]

Part number on the megan trailing arms?
Thanks.
-Bill

[sowise]

Part number on the megan trailing arms?
Thanks.
-Bill

I will respond to the suspension parts in the MOD mania suspension section for adjustable links. I just want to try and keep this thread a bit more about front and rear brake set ups.

[Lockleaf]

New dodge challenger is close but still not quite tall enough.
http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc148/Lokleaf/12063059.jpg

2006 Subaru Legacy GT - wrong bolt pattern but otherwise pretty good I think.
http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc148/Lokleaf/12047024.jpg

2006 Subaru STI - perhaps?
http://i213.photobucket.com/albums/cc148/Lokleaf/12047022.jpg

For anyone interested, all these diagrams were found @ http://www.zeckhausen.com/products.htm and these are only a few of the ones I looked at. Somebody closer to the action could do a better job perhaps. just select a specific car and if they have a diagram for that car it is shown as a hyper link in the brake rotor part number.

[Seraphinwolf]

Okay so I haven't been following this in a while and actually haven't even been on here in a LONG time so where do we stand now?
2 pots will bolt up and clear evenly without clearance issues on the rotor or anywhere else with swapping in STi backing plates?
Where are the fronts standing at for the moment?
Just to sum it up that is.
I'm soon to go to sleep here and restumbled in here as I was checking on Mega Squirt progress in the EM section.

[sowise]

I haven't heard anything new on the fronts other than what has been posted in this thread. I am still waiting to find a good deal on a set of the front brakes I missed a couple of chances and now they are harder to find. I am working mostly on the rear end and haven't made my way to the front yet.

[Seraphinwolf]

Well keep up the good work. And def keep us posted on the cleanace and such with the rears.

[Johnybeas]

bump for updates??

[Bonestock]

We have any luck finding a rotor to fit the Subaru 4 pot front brakes?

[SVX_MY_BABY]

I need to do new callipers and rotors all around and my rear plates have rusted away.

Any new developments?

What is the wrx calliper part number for the rear? Year?

Would you use wrx rotors?

Any negative side effects on brake balance if you only do the rear with wrx?

[sowise]

I need to do new callipers and rotors all around and my rear plates have rusted away.

Any new developments?

What is the wrx calliper part number for the rear? Year?

Would you use wrx rotors?

Any negative side effects on brake balance if you only do the rear with wrx?

Check this auction for year make and model info, I have the same rears but you would need to change the backing plate to mount the rears. I did my initial with the stock rotor and didn't see any issues but I am working elsewhere and having done the rear bearings and final fit with new rotors yet.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Subaru-Impreza-WRX-Red-4-Pot-Brakes-Carriers-Calipers_W0QQitemZ330425967642QQcmdZViewItemQQptZM otors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories?hash=item4ceeec2 41a#ht_1004wt_939

plus a set of fronts will cost more than my whole parts car so that portion is just on hold for now.

[Crazy_pilot]

Any negative side effects on brake balance if you only do the rear with wrx?

I'm going to guess that you'll have less effective braking in the rear due to the larger fluid volume requirements of the WRX calipers. However, that's just an educated guess.

[zavikan]

I just posed this problem to allexperts.com

They seem to be a pretty awesome site with some real deal expert advice. I've used them many times for other things.

Just posed the question to some race fabricators asking if there WAS a way to cut the mounting brackets and reattach them in an uncompromising way.

Cause it honestly sounds scary to me, but then again, im no expert... maybe it can be done?

[zavikan]

I've got some interesting news. This is what I asked, and the reply. Also his credentials.

Expert: Dan Liddy
Subject: Cutting of Brake mounting points: SAFETY
Question: Asking you in the race world b/c of your fabricating experience.

The Subaru SVX. great little rare sport coupe of the 90's. Problem was it was plagued by small legacy brakes. There are 1 or 2 BBK's available, but they have had limited success, and astronomical costs.

It has been discovered that modern WRX brakes will mount up the rear w/ no modification.

The front WRX calipers also mount, but bring the braking surface outward so that a stock rotor is not large enough in the diameter. No rotor can be found to fit the new required specs.

It has been suggested that the mounting points on the wrx caliper brackets to be cut off, and then reattached after cutting out a short section of the bracket.

My question:

Is it possible to do this w/o compromising the safety of the bracket? Welding? some other method? failure would result in catastrophe of course, so safety is of course the ultimate concern.
Answer: Hi James:

I'm not familiar with the exact nature of the Subaru front spindle assembly but your answer is a qualified yes.

First: your welder should be highly experienced, and able to run a neat and very even weld bead.

Second: The parts to be mated should be ground to provide a deep "V" so the welding will penetrate all the way through the bracket. If possible, they should be welded from BOTH sides, and both sides should have the "V" ground in them beforehand. Your welder should clamp everything firmly in place before starting, and leave it clamped until it has cooled naturally.

Third: I would suggest that after the weld is cooled completely, it be re-heated with a torch and annealed to relieve any internal stresses. Do this with a large 'rosebud' torch tip and heat the entire assembly but concentrating on the welded area, bringing it to a very dull red, then allowing it to cool naturally. NEVER cool welded metals with water, it causes brittleness.

Be sure to measure everything VERY Carefully before, during , and after each phase of the job. It should be alright. and quite safe. However when you start using it, inspect it carefully after every on track session until you're confident it's OK. The slightest crack should be investigated. Done right , it should last indefinitely.

Good luck

Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Florida
Dan Liddy
S

(Listed on his bio page)
Expertise
Anything concerning race cars, 20 years competition experience, Senior Competition Driver Instructor , car builder, mechanic, welding, fabrication, tuning , engine modifications, set up, suspension design. Specializing in Datsun/Nissan products. Please submit questions about RACE CARS ONLY. No street cars, no video game scenarios Thank you.
Experience
I have been racing for 20 years, I have been the Central Florida SCCA Regional Championship points for 5 years running, and won the championship in my class 2 times. During my first start in the 60's I won many solo awards and the State Championship Drags. I serve as a senior instructor for SCCA, and have taught in Mercedes AMG events at Daytona, and Dodge Viper Days at Sebring International. I have been in the thick of the competition for all of my career. At one time or another I have driven race cars at speeds nearing 195 MPH. It's quite a ride !


Honestly guys, I think he's right. While I would never do the job myself, I would NOT mind taking them someplace that I deemed experienced enough to do it.

Thoughts?

[sperry]

My thoughts are that if you're going to start down the road of fabrication, you might as well upgrade the entire front spindle/hubs along with the brakes, like this:

http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?t=53570

It was the discussion about how the STi brakes almost but don't quite mate up to the SVX spindles that started me down the path of comparing the SVX and STi spindles to see if the STi ones could be used. Not only do you get away without having to rely on a pro-quality weld, you also get the much better STi unit bearings.

But the side issue is that it ends up being just about as expensive as getting a BBK custom made for the SVX, which is really the "correct" way to go about it. Just use Willwood or StopTech calipers and get the proper offset on the mounting bracket that adapts an STi caliper to an SVX hub. That's the least intrusive way to get it done... but it's also one of the most expensive.

[zavikan]

There are members here with the wilwood BBK. One needed pads and rotors and it cost more then $1000, so they actually downgraded to save the costs.

Said it before... I think spending big money on a part is ok if its meant to last the life of the vehicle. When its something like rotors that are a fairly standard replacement item...I would rather spend FAR less then half that cost on something explained in this thread....

I just read the brute force thread....There is a big difference in $$$ and replacement $$$ and installation $$$....for this method then what you went through... and still have yet to solve, mind you. Taking these calipers and modifying the bracket is supremely cheaper not only initially, but over all. Yours in the end 'may' be better, as it has other upgraded components, but are the costs better spent elsewhere? Taking parts from other Subarus is a good idea, b/c as they get older, they can be found for cheap money.

As far as cutting and rewelding the brackets, the VERY first thing that came to mind was safety. But in all honesty, There are plenty of people who do full custom jobs on cars and cut/reweld bits to fit right...from hack-slash to professional. All the Hot Rodders out there aren't running w/ bolt on bits. I trust that rewelding brake brackets can be done in a way that is NOT hack/slash and is very safe. I would also stipulate there is no way in heck I would trust any welder to do it. I'd take it to an experienced custom fabricator/race shop to have it done, overstating my concerns for safety while I was at it.
James

[SilverSpear]

There are members here with the wilwood BBK. One needed pads and rotors and it cost more then $1000, so they actually downgraded to save the costs.

Said it before... I think spending big money on a part is ok if its meant to last the life of the vehicle. When its something like rotors that are a fairly standard replacement item...I would rather spend FAR less then half that cost on something explained in this thread....

I have not fully read into the brute force STI brake thread, but I was under the impression that it was a bit of a hack and slash....

James

Sorry but I am still not convinced that stock front used STi brakes modded to fit SVX are worth $2k.

I would contemplate potential BBK options and see which is the closest to SVX or would require minimal modding to fit, sit like a hawk on the related board and wait till someone offer a decent set for sale. This is just me..

[zavikan]

Silver: modifying caliper brackets to sit on the SVX is certainly less then $2000....


Purchase calipers...modify bracket... buy brake pads. thats it. everything else is original SVX.

[sperry]

Silver: modifying caliper brackets to sit on the SVX is certainly less then $2000....


Purchase calipers...modify bracket... buy brake pads. thats it. everything else is original SVX.
What's the real benefit of swapping just the calipers? The SVX's sliding calipers aren't horrible in their design. Really the issue w/ the SVX brakes are a lack of heat capacity and poor pedal feel.

When I put the StopTechs on my car, the pedal feel got better, but not night and day better, which leads me to believe the pedal feel problem is really in the brake booster/master cylinder (I already had SS lines).

And without going to a much larger rotor, swapping calipers does virtually nothing for the brake fade that occurs after multiple hard stops. We already know the SVX's stock brakes are plenty fine for one hard stop... it's the heat soaking from track abuse that they can't take.

So really, a caliper swap alone is more of a cosmetic upgrade than anything else, unless the cost of FHI 4-pot pads is significantly cheaper than SVX pads, in which case there is the economical benefit. Personally, I wouldn't bother swapping the brakes unless I was upgrading the rotors significantly, but that's because I'm looking to get the car usable for instructing at the track since my WRX is too noisy, hot, uncomfortable, and hard to get in/out of for hauling students around in.

But I guess if you're mostly just looking for prettier brakes, a modified 4-pot would definitely look better and still look "factory". Plus you'd get a minor benefit to the larger caliper as a heat sink, but the real benefit comes from the larger rotor that you'll be giving up on.