When it comes to loaded brake caliper & unloaded, most people are at a loss for what to do. They know they need to decide, but they’re not sure where to go.
The main difference between a loaded brake caliper and an unloaded brake caliper is that a loaded brake caliper has a greater braking force. This is because the car’s weight is compressing the brake pads against the rotor, which increases the friction and stopping power. Unloaded brake calipers do not have this benefit, so they may take longer to stop a car in certain situations.
In this article, I will explore the pros and cons of both options and help you make the best decision for your needs.
What Does A Brake Caliper Do?
A brake caliper is a component of a disc brake system that houses the brake pads and helps to apply pressure to the rotor. The caliper uses hydraulic fluid to force the brake pads against the rotor, creating friction that slows down or stops the wheel’s rotation.
When you step on the brake pedal, fluid is sent from the master cylinder to the calipers, causing them to press the pads against the rotor. The caliper allows the brake system to apply pressure evenly to both sides of the rotor, slowing down or stopping the vehicle.
What Is A Loaded Brake Caliper?
A loaded brake caliper is a brake caliper that has been pre-assembled with all the necessary components, so it’s ready to be installed on a vehicle. The main advantage of a loaded caliper is that it saves time and effort during installation since all you need to do is bolt it on.
A loaded brake caliper usually has pads, pins, and installed clips. Moreover, some calipers come with anti-rattle hardware or brake line adapters. You might also see loaded calipers as “semi-loaded” or “pre-assembled.”
What Is An Unloaded Brake Caliper?
An unloaded brake caliper is a type that is not used to apply braking force to the wheels. The caliper may be mounted on the frame or body of the vehicle, or it may be floating freely.
When the brake pedal is applied, the caliper will press the brake pads against the rotor, slowing or stopping the vehicle. Unloaded brake calipers are often used as part of a vehicle’s emergency braking system.
Comparison Table
| Type of brake caliper | Loaded | Unloaded |
| Number of pistons | 4 | 2 |
| Brake fluid volume | Large | Small |
| Size and weight | Large | Small |
| Brake pedal feel | Firm | Soft |
| Ability to dissipate heat | Good | Poor |
| Fade resistance | High | Low |
| Warping resistance | High | Low |
| Corrosion resistance | Good | Poor |
| Maintenance frequency | Low | High |
Detailed Comparison Between Loaded And Unloaded Brake Caliper
When it comes to brake calipers, there are two main types that you can choose from- the loaded brake caliper and the unloaded brake caliper. Both types have advantages and disadvantages that make them suitable for different applications.
Here is a detailed comparison between the two types of brake calipers to help you make an informed decision:
Loaded Brake Caliper
Advantages:
- The main advantage of using a loaded brake caliper is that it offers better performance as compared to an unloaded brake caliper.
- Loaded brake calipers are less likely to experience caliper piston sticking or seizure.
- They offer shorter stopping distances as compared to unloaded brake calipers.
- Loaded brake calipers offer better heat dissipation, which leads to improved performance and longevity.
Disadvantages:
- The main disadvantage of using a loaded brake caliper is that they are more expensive as compared to unloaded brake calipers.
- Loaded brake calipers are also heavier and bulkier, making them difficult to install.
- They also require more maintenance as compared to unloaded brake calipers.
Unloaded Brake Caliper
Advantages:
- The biggest advantage of using an unloaded brake caliper is that it is more affordable than loaded brake calipers.
- Unloaded brake calipers are also lighter and smaller, making them easier to install.
- They require less maintenance as compared to loaded brake calipers.
Disadvantages:
- The biggest disadvantage of using an unloaded brake caliper is that they offer inferior performance as compared to loaded brake calipers.
- Unloaded brake calipers are also more likely to experience caliper piston sticking or seizure.
- They offer longer stopping distances as compared to loaded brake calipers.
- Unloaded brake calipers offer poor heat dissipation, reducing performance and longevity.
So, Where’s To Go?
So, which type of brake caliper should you choose? When you are looking for a brake caliper that offers better performance, you should go for a loaded brake caliper. However, if you are on a tight budget, then you can opt for an unloaded brake caliper.
How To Tell If Your Brake Calipers Are Loaded Or Unloaded?
When it comes to brakes, there are two types of calipers: loaded and unloaded. Loaded calipers have a spring that pushes the pads against the rotor, while unloaded calipers rely on fluid pressure to do the work.
Here are a few ways to tell if your brake calipers are loaded or unloaded:
- If you can push the pads away from the rotor with your fingers, then they are most likely unloaded.
- If the pads are held in place by a spring, then they are loaded.
- If you can see fluid pressure holding the pads, your calipers are most likely unloaded.
What Does Semi-Loaded Brake Caliper Mean?
A semi-loaded brake caliper is a type of brake caliper that uses both hydraulic pressure and spring tension to keep the pads in contact with the rotor.
This provides better braking performance than a single-action brake caliper but is less effective than a fully loaded brake caliper. Semi-loaded brake calipers are often used on motorcycles and other vehicles where space is limited.
How To Install A Loaded Brake Caliper?
- First, you need to remove the old brake caliper. To do this, you will need a wrench and a screwdriver.
- Once the old brake caliper is removed, you will need to clean the area where the new brake caliper will be installed.
- Next, you will need to install the new brake caliper. To do this, you will need to align the caliper with the mounting bracket and then tighten the bolts.
- Finally, you will need to bleed the brakes. To do this, you will need a brake bleeder kit.
How To Install A Unloaded Brake Caliper?
- Using a c-clamp, compress the piston into the caliper until it’s flush with the surface.
- Remove the old brake pads from the caliper. Check for any wear or damage on the pads and replace them if necessary.
- Install the new brake pads into the caliper. Make sure they are properly seated and aligned.
- Reattach the caliper to the brake rotor.
- Once the caliper is in place, tighten the bolts to secure it. You may need to use a wrench or socket to do this.
- Before you replace the wheel, be sure to pump the brakes a few times to make sure they are working properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does A Loaded Brake Caliper Mean?
A loaded brake caliper is a caliper that has been professionally remanufactured and comes with a brand new brake pad already attached and all necessary components. Many possible issues, such as leaks and uneven wear of the brake pads, are mitigated by purchasing this set.
Which Is Better, Fixed Or Floating Caliper?
If you have a fixed caliper, applying the brakes will not cause it to move—a caliper with pistons on both sides. When you squeeze the brakes, the pistons press the pads on the rotor from both sides. It takes a little more finesse to use a caliper that floats.
Why Are Fixed Calipers Better?
Not only is installing a system with fixed calipers more sturdy, but the caliper’s rigidity is also substantially improved. The results are a better brake pedal feel, less pad wear, and better-stopping power.
What Are Two Types Of Disc Calipers?
Sliding or floating calipers are the most frequent. Piston count is either one or two. When the brakes are applied, the caliper body travels closer to the rotor, pressing the inner brake pad on the disc.
How Do I Choose A Brake Caliper?
Calipers are available in a wide variety of sizes to accommodate various gap sizes. The brake disc’s thickness must be considered for correct gaping when planning your best brake setup.
In certain cases, NEO calipers can measure the width of a rotor of a specific diameter, while others can’t (usually 50mm and 60mm).
Why Are Floating Brake Rotors Better?
If you’re seeking maximum stopping force, a floating rotor is your best bet. To stop, you must push the brake pads onto the braking rotor, which is accomplished by squeezing the brake lever.
A floating rotor may be shaped to fit the brake pads for optimal rotor-to-pad contact.
Should I Replace All 4 Brake Calipers?
Calipers need to be replaced in pairs for cars having four-wheel disc brakes. When one caliper on a front wheel and tire is damaged or fails, the corresponding caliper on the rear wheels and tires must be replaced, as is the case with front disc brakes alone.
Concluding Remarks
Loaded brake calipers apply more pressure to the brake pads, which results in faster braking. Unloaded brake caliper pistons push the pads away from the rotor, resulting in longer braking distances. In most cases, loaded brake calipers perform better than unloaded ones.
However, there are some vehicles where unloaded brake calipers provide better performance. For example, race cars often have unloaded brake calipers because they need to slow down quickly without causing too much wear on the brakes.
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