Brcmpbl

I'm looking to understand the difference between o-ring and lip seal style calipers more fully. I just changed the rears on my 76 and went with o-rings, but the ones I took off looked very similar (one was leaking though of course, thus the swap). I understand the merits of o-rings and will continue to use them, I'd just like to be able to be sure what my old ones are. I can't get pics up myself just yet because I'm away from the car. Anyone have a pic of each showing the pistons and wants to explain the design difference? Thanks as always.

speedreed8

heres a short write up may help some.
http://www.cssbinc.com/images/ads/ho...structions.pdf

Alan 71

Hi B,
I'd describe the o-ring type as having a cross section in the shape of a simple circle. Part of the surface of the circle makes the seal against the bore.
I'd describe the lip-seal type as having a cross section that has a 'flap' on it. This 'flap' is what makes the seal against the bore.
Regards,
Alan

Brcmpbl

Thanks guys. Alan, that description resonates. I'm thinking that one of my calipers was of the o-ring type and the other one that was leaking was of the lip type. The leaking pistons on the one I believe to be of the lip type had a flap that was pulling away from the bore, thus causing it to leak.

F4Gary

The intro to that article is a bit misleading. It says Corvette quit using lip seals in 82 and switched to o-rings. But they also change the type of caliper to go along with the change to o-rings.

mds3013

Look through here to see my O-ring caliper rebuild. mike...

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-g...-calipers.html

Brcmpbl

Great link / write-up. Thank you. The 1970 is getting this treatment over the winter hopefully.