1991 Audi coupe 7A rear caliper options to prevent seized handbrake

[cgharibo]

Hi there,

I have stock rear calipers on my stock 1991 Audi coupe. The handbrake mechanism gets rusty at the caliper and the spring return is not strong enough for the pads to come off the rotor.

I want to keep it as simple as possible while addressing the hand brake design flaw. What are my options to revise this mechanism?

Thank you!

[Tractor Dave]

There isn't really a good permanent solution to this. I can only suggest a complete overhaul with new seals and plenty of silicon grease on the handbrake pin that runs to the worm drive. You could try springs from newer calipers. I fitted ones from an A3 on my S2 Avant rear brakes. Then its just a case of regular use and repeated handbrake pulling on and off at slow speed every time you go out. If you dont use the car often, leave the handbrake off with the car in gear. This will prevent the pads sticking to the discs. Never wash the car and then put away without driving the car a few miles to dry the brakes off. You may also find you cables have dried out internally and won't be helping things.

[cgharibo]

Thank you for the valuable info. What year A3 has suitable springs for our cars? Thank you.

[Tractor Dave]

Sorry but i can't remember the year. Just compare your old springs with what you can get locally. As long as the fittings are the same, they should work.

[John.]

I remember a thread somewhere and it was suggested to use Ford springs as they were stronger than the Audi ones?

Something like these...... For Ford Sierra 1982-1998 2x Rear Brake Caliper Return Springs (Rear Disc) | eBay UK