Caliper Confusion - Can You Help?

[curriedb]

Hi folks,

Regulars will know I've had problems with a seized piston in a rear caliper. That's been solved by taking the caliper off - and having it refurbished locally...

During my search for an exchange unit I discovered that there's considerable confusion surrounding the correct rear caliper to fit the MR2 MK3s - pre and post facelift.

Toyota proved unhelpful on the matter. As they provide NEW PARTS they don't need to worry about confusion over refurbished parts. Unfortunately, I also drew a blank with most motor factors I contacted. And one Toyota website says they are all the same - which just adds to the confusion.

However, one company - Brake Engineering which has a £5m turnover in refurbished/remanufactured brake parts - took the trouble to do a little digging. And came up with the following:

Pre (sept) 2002 manufactured cars have the following casting ref on rear nearside caliper: AT 52 4502

Post (facelift) models have a casting stamp: AT 55 4504.

It's always frustrating when the wrong car part is supplied. So, it would be good if members with both pre and post Sept 2002 manufactured cars could post their casting ref - so that we can nail this issue once and for all.

IT COULD SAVE A FELLOW CAR OWNER A LOT OF HASSLE IN THE FUTURE!

I can confirm my nearside rear caliper has the 55 4504 (and it's a facelift model) but what about yours?

Go on...take a look...you know you'll feel guilty if you dont!! :)

[Bob Brown]

I've tried looking for this number twice and failed.. Can you expand on where it is?

[curriedb]

Hi Bob,

Firstly, thanks for taking the time and trouble to look!!

The (circa 1 cm) letters/numerals are cast into the top of the caliper. You might need to give the caliper a brush first - just in case dirt is masking the casting reference data.

Hope this helps!

Dave