Re: "clean wheels" covers

["John I Gray III" <jira@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I think this is a product that suffers from a reputation earned decades ago
when there were problems with the early versions. The current generation of
the Kleen Wheels=81 brand is different in that the shield no longer envelopes
the disk and caliper on three sides allowing improved air flow. In addition=
,
they are now slotted, which, according to the folks at BMP, improves air
flow across the dicks and caliper to the point that race teams have tested
and are now fitting their cars with these shields to actually improve brake
performance. I also understand manufacturers, including BMW, are now
providing these items as standard equipment on some cars as well. I cannot
confirm either of these reports, but pass them along for what they are
worth. BTW, I have ordered a set for my 528i.

Regards,

John Gray
'91 528i
'91 318is

- ----------
>From: owner-bmw-digest@domain.elided (bmw-digest)
>To: bmw-digest@domain.elided
>Subject: bmw-digest V9 #1319
>Date: Thu, Dec 16, 1999, 12:34 AM
>

>
> Date: Wed, 15 Dec 1999 00:37:20 PST
> From: "Ron Buchalski" <rbuchals@domain.elided>
> Subject: Re: RE:"clean wheels" covers
>
> Scott,
>
> Opinions on brake dust covers (Kleen Wheels is one brand) are like
> a**holes...everyone has one.
>
> Yes, they do restrict the airflow through the brake area, and will affect
> brake cooling to a degree.  However, depending on your driving style, thi=
s
> may not be a problem for you.
>
> If you ever do any driving events (BMWCCA or other Driving Schools, for
> example), take them out.  You'll need all the brake cooling you can get.
>
> If you do lots of stop and go driving, where you're always on the brakes,
> and moving slowly, air cooling will be affected.
>
> If you do lots of highway driving, with minimal stops, then you shouldn't
> have anything to worry about.
>
> You could also replace your factory ("dust filled") brake pads with some
> aftermarket pads which don't produce as much dust.  PBR Metalmaster is on=
e
> example of such a pad.
>
> If you do opt to install brake dust covers on your wheels, don't offer yo=
ur
> back orifice to the dealer as payment!  Shop around.  A set of Kleen Whee=
ls
> http://www.ctcc.com/kleen_wheels/  (the web page is broken, but there is
> contact info there) shouldn't cost you more than $40.
>
> - -rb
>
>>
>>Date: Wed, 8 Dec 1999 23:46:20 -0500
>>From: "Dr. Scott E. Brunengraber" <drscott@domain.elided>
>>Subject: RE:"clean wheels" covers
>>
>>My dealership is trying to sucker me into getting those brake covers for
>>the
>>brake dust.  My friend who is a master wrench at bmw said that they
>>increase
>>the heat of the brakes thereby increasing squealing and wear of the pads
>>themselves.  I can see how that can happen by not allowing sufficient air
>>flow or restriction thereof.  My question is thus;  can this decrease
>>stopping ability as well?  If anybody has any experience with these cover=
s,
>>let me know.  Also, they want $300 for them!
>>
>>Thanks.
>>
>>Dr. Scott E. Brunengraber
>>'00 323i
>>

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