Upgrading Xsara disc brakes

i_want_one_of_those · 21 Jan 2006, 19:12

Hi there Guys & Dolls

Newbie here, hoping that I will not have too many problems that I need to resort to the site, but I must say I am impressed so far. Anyway.....

My partner has an R reg Xsara 1.4i.

It has 14 inch alloy wheels off of a Saxo VTR, with the correct size tyres.

The car has, IIRC 247 mm discs on the front. I have thought about increasing the size to 267 which is the standard size for the rest of the range, excluding the VTS. I think the sizes are correct from memory.

Anyway, I think that it is just a case of swapping over to the larger sized discs, pads, caliper and caliper carrier. And then rebleeding the system. Is it that easy

Also, can I fit the larger size discs and calipers under the Saxo 14inch alloys

As I am here, can I swap the rear drums to disc brakes easily or not.

Your guidance is much appreciated.

Spence 8)

jeremy · Unread post by **jeremy** » 21 Jan 2006, 20:31

Have you got a problem with the existing brakes? Are they fading or something? What are you hoping to achieve?

bencowell · Unread post by **bencowell** » 21 Jan 2006, 20:36

I recommend ATE Power Discs, which are grooved. Not too expensive but improve braking performance and are easy to fit.

James.UK · Unread post by **James.UK** » 22 Jan 2006, 01:47

I put the calipers from a volcane, and larger air cooled discs and pads on my ZX. But I think swopping with Berlingo is a better option. you need longer flexables if you do that I think. Jon did it a long while ago. A search may find the topic again..

Swopping the back end is quite a big job I think, I didn't bother.. My ZX brakes are ok now.

Paul Mi16 · Unread post by **Paul Mi16** » 22 Jan 2006, 11:22

I'd say its a waste of time as a 1.4 Xsara don't go fast enought to need bigger brakes. Uprated pads and discs arre probably the best option.

i_want_one_of_those · 22 Jan 2006, 16:42

Thanx Guys

Thinking about the upgrade and the discs are the smallest in the Xsara family and they do not seem as responsive as the brakes on my Focus.

Just thought that when I come to replace the pads and discs I could take the opportunity to revamp the brakes thats all.

Just wondered about picking up the required parts from a breakers(with new discs and pads obviously) and doing the swap.

Spence 8)

Stuart McB · Unread post by **Stuart McB** » 23 Jan 2006, 11:00

GSF are good for Brembo discs and pads. Very, very easy install. Done the brakes on both my Xsara VTR's. The last one took just and hour to do both side.