Big Brake Conversion
Upgrading the stopping power on the CRX SiR
Introduction
The brakes on my SiR from the moment I got it were noticeably worse than my
previous Si (which I converted to a rebuilt SiR system). When I managed to get
hold of a set of Integra Type-R callipers, it was an ideal time to overhaul the
complete system.
The 1998 spec Integra Type-R callipers are identical to those used on the
Prelude 2.2 VTEC also, they use a 282mm Disc, as opposed to the SiR's standard
262mm. The calliper is also of a far beefier design. This brake conversion has
been around for a long time, but I felt it would be of benefit to sum up from
start to finish exactly what is involved, as I couldn't find any such guide on
the internet. There are many calliper/disc combinations to take your CRX/Civic
to 282mm discs. As I already had the Integra Type-R callipers, that decision was
made for me.
The ITR callipers gave me two options with regard to discs, the 2.2 VTEC Prelude
discs, or MG Rover ZS 180 discs. Either choice requires concessions:
Prelude Discs
-
Prelude/Accord use a 110mm PCD instead of my cars
100mm PCD, so the holes for the studs need to be
elongated by a machine shop.
-
Disc set screw holes do not line up with the hub -
not completely essential but it would be nice!
MG Rover ZS 180 Discs
-
Correct offset etc, but
the disc is thicker - this means it will collide
with the calliper mounting frame, so this needs to
be taken care of.
-
Thicker disc adds noticeable weight
increase of conversion.
I chose to take the ZS disc option, as
it required less work overall to fit and I thought was
the most "tidy" rather than machining discs etc. The
thicker disc should also handle more punishment. I have
put together a table of disc sizes here so you can see
what's going on.
Before.......and after!