Dodge RD200 Disc Brake Caliper Guide (1978-1980)
Everything you need to know about choosing the right replacement disc brake caliper for your classic Dodge truck.
- For a 1978-1980 RD200, you will be choosing between new aftermarket and remanufactured calipers, as new OEM parts are unavailable.
- Symptoms of failure include pulling to one side, a spongy pedal, fluid leaks, or a dragging/burning sensation from a wheel.
- Always replace calipers in pairs (left and right) to ensure balanced braking.
- When installing, make sure the bleeder screw is at the top of the caliper, not the bottom, to allow proper bleeding.
Is Your Brake Caliper Failing?
Brake calipers on a 1978-1980 Dodge RD200 are built tough, but after 40+ years, they can fail. Age, moisture, and heat can cause seals to leak and pistons to stick. Here are the common signs of a bad brake caliper:
- Pulling to One Side: If the truck pulls to the left or right when you brake, it could be a sign of a stuck caliper on one side.
- Spongy Brake Pedal: A soft or spongy feeling when you press the brake pedal often points to a leak in the system, which could be from a caliper seal.
- Brake Fluid Leaks: Puddles of oily fluid near the inside of a front wheel are a sure sign of a leaking caliper.
- Dragging Sensation: A stuck caliper can fail to release, causing the brake pads to constantly rub against the rotor. This creates a dragging feeling and can cause the truck to feel sluggish.
- Burning Smell: A dragging caliper will generate extreme heat, often creating a strong, burning smell from the affected wheel after a drive.
Brake Problems are Serious
Never ignore brake problems. A failing caliper can lead to a complete loss of braking ability. If you suspect an issue, get it inspected immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Caliper
For a vintage truck like the RD200, new original equipment (OEM) parts from Dodge are no longer available. Your choices are new aftermarket calipers or remanufactured calipers. Both are good options, but there are differences.
- New Aftermarket Calipers: These are made from 100% new parts. Brands like Dynamic Friction specialize in new brake components. They offer the highest reliability and longest service life, but usually cost more.
- Remanufactured Calipers: These use the original caliper body (the core) which is cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt with all new seals, pistons, and hardware. Brands like Cardone and BBB Industries are well-known for remanufactured parts. They offer performance that is as good as new for a lower cost and are an environmentally friendly option.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
It is always recommended to replace calipers in pairs (both front left and front right at the same time). This ensures even braking performance and prevents pulling. Since the other caliper is the same age, it is likely to fail soon anyway.
Available Aftermarket Brands
The market for your RD200 includes several reputable brands:
- Cardone: A very common and trusted name in the remanufactured parts world. They offer a good balance of quality and price.
- Dynamic Friction: Often known for quality, this brand typically provides new (not remanufactured) calipers, which can be a good choice for those wanting maximum longevity.
- BBB Industries: Another major supplier of remanufactured calipers, known for quality rebuilding processes and testing.
Common Ordering Mistake
A common mistake during installation is swapping the left and right calipers. They look almost identical, but the bleeder screw must be in the top position. If it's on the bottom, you will not be able to properly bleed the air out of the system, resulting in a spongy pedal and poor braking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a caliper with the mounting bracket?
Most replacement calipers for the RD200 are available with or without the mounting bracket. If your original bracket is in good shape and not seized, you can reuse it. However, buying a caliper with a new bracket included ensures all parts are fresh and can make installation easier.
What is a "core charge"?
When you buy a remanufactured caliper, you'll often see a "core charge." This is a deposit that you get back when you return your old, worn-out caliper. This allows the remanufacturer to rebuild your old part for the next customer.
Can I rebuild my own caliper?
Yes, rebuild kits are available which include new seals and O-rings. This is the most budget-friendly option but requires more time, special tools, and mechanical skill. If the caliper piston or housing is rusted or damaged, a full replacement is necessary.
Were there any recalls for 1978-1980 Dodge truck brake calipers?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and other records did not find any recalls or widespread TSBs specifically for brake calipers on the 1978-1980 Dodge RD200 or related D-series trucks. Any recalls found are for much newer Dodge vehicles.
Technical Specifications
The Dodge RD200 uses a floating-style, single-piston front disc brake caliper. Ensure the replacement part matches the specific axle rating for your truck (e.g., 3800 or 4000 lb front axle).
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.