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In a message dated 97-04-23 19:12:23 EDT, you write: << Subj: Speaking of brakes... Date: 97-04-23 19:12:23 EDT From: jadney@vwtype3.org (Melissa & Jim) To: type-3@umich.edu I was just wondering if anyone on this list had any good ideas about the purpose of the rather strange mechanisms inside the type III caliper/piston bores. To my knowledge these occur only in type IIIs and IVs and 914s. Since they are not used in other cars they are a little hard to explain. So, in order of preference, I'd like to hear: 1) References to where they are authoritatively explained. 2) Well-reasoned explanations. 3) Wild theories ;-)>> Jim, 1. According to the Haynes manual, it is a compensator to spring load the pistons during "lateral movement" of the front rotors. It states this lateral movement is due to the suspension geometry. Having rebuilt my '67 calipers, I can say it is really a PITA! 2. The rotors on these cars are large diameter (because the VW's had room with 15" rims). My guess is that while maintaining recommended wheel bearing pre-load, VW discovered that the large rotors would sometimes momentarily contact the brake pads under hard cornering, etc. This contact would push the piston back further and when the brakes where applied again, it would create more pedal travel. Rather than confuse the driver, they installed the compensators. 3. Wild Theory - Conspiracy by ATE to raise part prices to VW. Compensators didn't really work, but all the small intricate parts really drove up the labor costs. Mike