alternate KG style front callipers

I bought a EMPI front disc brake kit, and the callipers use little square pads that are hardly confidence inspiring. Presumably this is from a Karmann Ghia. In retrospect, had I known it was EMPI, I would not have bought it

Is there a more authoritative front calliper that bolts right on and clears stock steel rims? Something Japanese would be nice so that I do not have to import it.

I have a similar EMPI kit on the rear, with a proportioning valve so not worried about the larger calliper up front.

The Beetle hand brake cables are too long for the shortened pan. What do you use for hand brake cables with rear discs?
I am tempted to cut the end off and re-swedge on another, but it would be nice to order the right part next time.

For my CMC i shortened cables at the hand brake end. Bought a VW cable shortening kit which uses new ends that are fastened with allen hex screws. I soldered cable where I planned to cut it so it wouldn't unravel.

The VW performance book listed below talks about using Chrysler Omni/Talbot Horizon calipers to increase brake pad surface area.

http://tinyurl.com/yc76m5c

Claims the calipers are readily available - so must be on other vehicles too. Sounds like cheap $100 upgrade. Direct bolt on replacement for ATE calipers. Provides both Larger pads and pistons.

What brand caliper? ATE? Girling? Do the square pads have a vertical cut line going through them? How many pins holding them on?

The Ghia front brakes improved steadily over the years of production, the last version were shared with the (potentially heavier when loaded) Type III square back and work REALY well. With a lighter (fiberglass bodied/stripped out) car, such as a Speedster, you ought to be in great shape as far as braking goes with what you have. Really.

A much bigger problem with front disks on a fiberglass kit car is that they lock up too quickly and easily. Without the weight up front, and little weight to transfer forward, you can easily lock them up in a hard stop and loose all steering control.

Be SURE to use a GERMAN master cylinder ONLY, no junk from Mexico or India, and a proportioning valve will help as well.

Luck,

TC

Callipers are branded EMPI which inspires the greatest degree of confidence. Will have to pull the wheel later today to answer the rest of your questions

MC is a German unit

Is the US Omni/Horizon the same brake calliper as the Talbot variant in the article?

Wonder if there is a Wilwood direct bolt on?