TYPE 3 TO BMW FRONT BRAKE CALIPER CONVERSION

The front brakes on a Type 3 were upgraded in 1972; the Disc and calliper are slightly larger after 1972. My COVIN Type 3 is 1973. It has 47mm of friction area width on the disc. The holes on the calliper-mounting bracket are 3 inches apart, this is a critical measurement.

The callipers to use are BMW 320i 1978 – 1983 ATE Units not the girling. The calliper has the same 3-inch centres mounting holes. It physically looks the same as the Type 3 but is much bigger. It is the same single port twin piston design, just like the Type 3.

I purchased by callipers from the local auto parts centre, they were re-conditioned units and cost £130.00 the pair inclusive of value added tax. I phoned several other dealers and the prices were similar. Add a set of brake pads and anti rattle kit, the total cost was £150.00.

The Type 3 brake pads have a surface area of approx 100cm2 over 4 pads. The BMW brake pads provide approx 160cm2 – 180cm2 area over the 4 pads.

I also fitted a set of stainless steel goodridge brake hoses all round, and the Type 3 hose fits the BMW calliper. This conversion is not a concept; I have it up and working on my car.

It may be possible to do this conversion on a pre 1972 Type 3, if the BMW calliper is no good try a Talbot Horizon girling calliper for size.

By

Andrew Devlin

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