FCP Groton 302mm brake upgrade WILL fit Columbas, Part 1

[tjts1]

Maybe it is just me, but that does not look safe. We are talking about the most important safety feature on the car.
The "ribs" look to be there for added strength for the flat section spanning the pads. As the piston pushes against the pads, it seems to me where the ribs are would be a high stress area. That's why I think they where designed with extra material there. What you grind off kind of looks like it acts as a structural brace for the outside pad area. Everything will probably work just fine, but just some food for thought

+1

This is not a good idea. Those ribs were put there for a very good reason. With time the floating caliper will flex and eventually fail most likely in an emergency situation.

[mecheng]

What are the stresses on the calipers, one can do an analysis to find out but seeing that they haven't failed means you are still below the yield point. The only concern would be fatigue, and in the real world this would take time to determine. As long as you are aware of the risks, and you have a working e-brake, I would inspect the caliper casting yearly at min.

The OP brings up some interesting points regarding safety. Good design is reducing risks as eliminating the risk is not always practical or feasible.
The caliper may have been over designed with liability on the line, as a safety mechanism I would add extra safety factor into the equation if my signature would be on it. OP is not advocating what he is doing, just sharing.

As with any mod or repair, try at your own risk.

[tryingbe]

Also, 302mm bracket is not longer available at dealership will have them, source will be used. I sold a used pair for $200 + shipping.

[rspi]

I sold a used pair for $200 + shipping.

LOL, a new reason to go to the junkyard.

[scot850]

There is another issue here too. You will not be able to use the calipers as cores should you need to replace them. That is why 17" wheels were designed!

Neil.