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Topic: 1986 Gti 8v brakes and calipers (Read 441 times) previous topic - next topic

1986 Gti 8v brakes and calipers

Hi all,  I know this has been covered loads but can’t quite work out what the original brake sizes are on my Golf (need to buy calipers/discs/pads for mechnic but can’t take the discs off yet to measure them!).

I’m pretty confident they are standard and original and from research, I’m confident I need 239mm x 20mm on the front. But I’m not sure if the rear is 239mm or 226mm and the existing ones only look about 10mm thick.  What’s the correct spec?

Really appreciate the advice!!!

Cheers Tim

Re: 1986 Gti 8v brakes and calipers

Reply #1 –
Hi,

Fronts
For an 8v GTI the fronts will be 239, and vented so I think 20mm is correct.

If there is any chance they have been updated to 16v spec brakes they will be 256.
The easy way to tell without measuring is to look at the calliper mount on the hub.
For 8v the hub/steering knuckle is shaped and includes the calliper carrier.


For 16, the calliper carrier is a separate part and bolts to the steering knuckle.



Rears
The rear are smaller than the fronts, so 226 is correct. The rears are solid, not vented so 10mm is the correct thickness.

Here's a link for rear discs
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/brembo/1656279

and rear pads
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/brembo/1661872

and when changing rear discs, you should replace the rear wheel bearings, here's a link for full kit both sides
https://www.autodoc.co.uk/ridex/13628383

I'm doing the same on mine right now.

Re: 1986 Gti 8v brakes and calipers

Reply #2 –
Nice one, this is extremely useful.

Much appreciated Tim

Re: 1986 Gti 8v brakes and calipers

Reply #3 –
So, I think I have this sorted but the caliper supplier is asking if I have 36 or 38mm pistons?!.  Any idea?  does it making a difference?

cheers, tim

Re: 1986 Gti 8v brakes and calipers

Reply #4 –
…so I think I worked this out. The 36mm piston callipers have a nipple facing towards the back of the car. The 38mm faces to the inside of the car. Mine is older and has the nipple facing back.

…I’m sure it would actually be easier to upgrade the brakes and be done with it but I’m trying to keep everything original here. I’m not likely to race anywhere in it!! :)