So there was an Amazon warehouse deal that was looking better and better by the day as the price dropped. I paid $70. The retail price is $255. After looking at it, I am 100% certain that like most mid-priced aftermarket items it is identical to the cheapest. You can get these for $100 less. But I feel they target those that dont want to pay OEM (fair enough) but are also scared to get the cheapest they can fine. So they simple mark them up more than other to give the feel of getting a better product - when it is simply not the case.




So let's take a look. Upon first inspection I noticed oil around every cover plate screw. If sealed, this should not be possible. So while I did plan to reseal it anyway, I went ahead and opened it up right away. Sure thing, the sealing was horrible. So little was used that it did not really make much contact between both sides. This would be a HUGE problem for myself with the water crossings I do. But still any issue for anyone like when using an underbody spray at a car wash. Basically where the applicator paused when putting it on is where a larger blob was made and that was the only spots were it made contact on both sides.




On the inside, the small ribbon cable falls out way too easily. I think on OEM modules a small dab of sealant is used to tack it down. I will do the same.



I will probably remove the grease and see what is the best to use. I bet in very cold temps this stuff is super stiff. Looks like cheap all purpose stuff.

 

Yeah get rid of that grease, you want that synthetic possibly even dieletric grease in there. Interested to see if it actually works and how long it lasts.

 

Yeah, I will see what is best. The Disco3UK folks usually know the exact stuff when it comes to this. If I lived in a hilly area where I needed a parking brake, I certainly would never use a cheap one. And frankly on the highway or when driving, the e-brake is the last thing I would think of in an emergency - sadly. So I never really use one. Part of me is temped to just use all the new cables this came with and refurb the factory module with new gears instead. Will see how that one is once I pull it out.

 

You may have discovered a real gem. One indicator I use when evaluating these parts is whether they use Phillips head screws rather than Torx. I see on the inside 2 Torx screws so it may be a better quality unit that you first gave it credit.

Learn from my mistake and do not forget to run a piece of wire or small piece of rope along the cables before you pull them out so you know the correct routing. The right side is more complicated because of the fuel lines.

Let us know how it works out.
Jeff

 

Thanks for sharing this. Learning a lot on how to keep these amazing rigs on the road!! Much appreciated