Which Brake Calipers

[---pete---]

Hi all

Hopefully some can help with the below.

I'm refreshing the brakes on my E46 B3S and I'm struggling to find which calipers I need. According to the Alpina handbook it talks about FN57 Front and FN42 Rear but I can't seem to find anything with that reference via an Internet search.

Does anyone know what the correct caliper parts are for both front and rear? I know these cars have a tenancy to use either 328 or 330 parts but I don't know if the B3 was standard 330 calipers or something else.

Many thanks in advance
Pete

[Charles]

The E46 B3S was based on the facelifted model and the donor car is likely to have been a 330i.

You can check this by using the BMW VIN in the windscreen on realoem.

A quick check on the Alpina-specific parts catalogue here does not mention any specific brak/caliper arrangements, so it is reasonable to assume that these were carried over from the donor car

[Yad3100]

Why don’t you refurb?

I have used BCS Automotive who will rebuild and paint, they also replace any parts required such as pitted pistons or drill out bleed nipples and will advise and price the work. My m3 got one new piston, and the quality of the build was top notch.

It’s a postal service so get them packaged and they will normally return in a week.

I will be doing likewise with the C2.

[---pete---]

Thanks both

I'm 99% sure it was a 330i donor but will double check tomorrow. It was just the calipers listed in the Alpina supplementary handbook that threw me away from the assumption it was standard 330i in the suspension technical data listing them odd part numbers.

I did think about the refurb route but I just don't really have the ability to get all the bits off myself in one go on the drive. I'm still undecided on switching / upgrading the discs and pads too as I'm not convinced the standard brakes are as good as they could be. Any advice on the pipes/hoses as I might as well change these too on the basis they're soon to be 20 years old.

Pete

[Yad3100]

Pete,

I have used hose clamps in the past but they are difficult to get a complete seal. I now have made four stops. Essentially an old brake pipe bend over and hammered flat. This allows me to remove calipers without fully draining the system. So you can take off everything from the flexi joint. You can also then put the wheels back on and use handbrake to stop if you need to move the car.

I’m sure a lot on here would use std parts, but I usually use an updated braided flexi as the don’t degrade like the rubber ones, but you must buy ones with stainless ends. I will keep the std ones for the c2 in the box to be able to return to std spec.

[tuanbaker]

Have you tried reaching out to any BMW clubs? They can be a great resource for finding hard-to-find parts and getting advice on maintenance and repairs. Another option you could try is contacting a local mechanic or BMW specialist shop to see if they have any recommendations.
Also, if you're in need of other parts or are considering selling your car, you might want to check out pull-a-part companies. They buy and sell junk cars and can often have a wide selection of used parts for various makes and models.

[davettf2]

Just a thought, the original VIN will be on the inner wing with a strike through, can you local BMW dealer trace that to give the donor ID?

Cheers
Dave