For decades, most brake calipers have been made from cast iron. Cast iron is a strong, durable material, but it’s also really heavy. To help shed weight and improve performance and fuel economy, many manufacturers now use brake calipers made from cast aluminum.
And while aluminum is just as strong as cast iron, it is much softer material, which presents some unique dangers to the installer—particularly if you’re used to working around cast iron brake components.
Whether you’ve got aluminum brake calipers or not, this video from Cardone Industries is a good watch, because it talks about many of the perils common when installing hardened steel fasteners in a softer metal. Check it out, because it may save you a ton of frustration and headaches from damaged brake parts and other automotive components.
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