Wheel Cylinder for Classic Opel — Kadett, Manta, Ascona, Rekord & Commodore
Looking for a wheel cylinder for your classic Opel? At Tomaxclassics you'll find rear brake cylinders for all major classic Opel models — from Kadett B to Rekord E. We stock new old stock (NOS) and quality aftermarket parts from ATE, TRW and Metelli, with fast shipping from the Netherlands.
Which Opel models use drum brakes?
All classic Opels from the 1960s to the late 1980s used rear drum brakes as standard. Front disc brakes were introduced on sportier variants from the early 1970s, but the rear axle remained drums across the entire range:
• Kadett B (1965–1973) — rear drums throughout
• Kadett C (1973–1979) — rear drums throughout, including GT/E
• Manta A (1970–1975) — rear drums
• Manta B (1975–1988) — rear drums on all engine variants
• Ascona A (1970–1975) / B (1975–1981) / C (1981–1988) — rear drums
• Rekord C/D/E (1966–1986) — rear drums (Rekord E 2.0E: rear discs)
• Commodore A/B/C (1967–1982) — rear drums
💡 Platform sharing: Manta A = Ascona A The Opel Manta A (1970–1975) and Ascona A (1970–1975) share the same platform, derived from the Kadett B. The rear wheel cylinder is identical across many engine variants. Similarly, the Rekord D and Commodore B share the same rear axle geometry — the wheel cylinder cross-references. Always verify the bore diameter and part number for your specific variant. |
Cylinder bore sizes — measure before you order
The bore diameter of the wheel cylinder determines the hydraulic pressure applied to the brake shoes. Using the wrong bore size causes uneven braking or brake pull. Common bore sizes in classic Opels:
• 19.05 mm (3/4"): Kadett B, Kadett C, Manta A, Ascona A/B — the most common size
• 20.64 mm (13/16"): some Kadett C variants with larger engine (1.6 SR/GT/E)
• 22.22 mm (7/8"): Manta B 1.8/2.0, Ascona C 1.6/2.0 — verify your variant
If you're unsure of the bore size on your car, measure the old cylinder or send us the VIN and engine code — we'll identify the correct part for you.
⚠️ Always replace in pairs Replace the left and right wheel cylinders at the same time. If one cylinder is leaking or seized, the other is usually close behind — and mismatched cylinders cause brake pull, which is both an MOT fail and a safety hazard. While the drum is off, also inspect the brake shoes and springs. |
OEM suppliers for classic Opel brake cylinders
• ATE (Continental) — original OEM supplier for Opel drum brake hardware from the 1960s onward. NOS ATE parts are the gold standard for restoration.
• Lucas / Girling — supplied late Manta B models and export variants. Cross-references available.
• TRW — quality aftermarket, widely used in restoration builds.
• Metelli — Italian aftermarket brand, good availability for Kadett C and Ascona parts.
🚚 Fast worldwide shipping from the Netherlands Ordered before 16:00 CET? Your order ships the same day. We ship worldwide — UK, Germany, Belgium, Scandinavia and beyond. Not sure which cylinder fits your Opel? Contact us with your VIN or engine code and we'll find the right part. |