Introduction: Stop Like a Claw, Look Like a Pro
Upgrading your classic muscle car or pro-touring build isn’t just about horsepower. Stopping power is the true measure of performance. If you’ve been searching for “Baer Brakes Baer Claw,” you already know you want the gold standard in braking. But with multiple systems from the Baer Claw GT Plus to the track-focused Extreme Plus how do you choose?
At Engines & Transmission TAN, we specialize in complete performance packages. A powerful crate engine needs an equally capable braking system. This guide breaks down every Baer Claw kit, compares it to Wilwood, provides installation tips, and shows you exactly which kit fits your vehicle whether it’s a 1970 Chevelle or a Ford 9-inch rear end.
Table: Baer Claw Kits Comparison (At a Glance)
To help you decide, here is a clear differentiation of the most popular Baer Claw systems.
| Baer Claw Kit Model | Best For | Rotor Size | Piston Count | Typical Vehicle Use | Relative Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baer Claw GT Plus | Street / Pro-Touring | 13″ – 14″ | 4 Piston | 1964-72 Chevelle, Camaro, Mustang | $$$ (Mid-Range) |
| Baer Claw Extreme Plus | Track / Autocross | 14″ – 15″ | 6 Piston | High-HP road race cars, Corvettes | $$$$ (Premium) |
| Baer Claw Rear Disc Conversion | Drum-to-Disc Swap | 12″ – 13″ | 4 Piston | Any classic with a Ford 9-inch or GM 12-bolt | $$$ (Mid-Range) |
| Baer Claw SS4 | Muscle Cars / Street | 12″ – 13″ | 4 Piston | Budget-friendly OEM+ upgrades |
1. Why Choose Baer Claw? (And Baer Claw vs Wilwood)
The Baer Brakes Baer Claw system is famous for its “big brake” feel without requiring massive 18-inch wheels. Unlike stock brakes, Baer Claw kits use lightweight 2-piece rotors and heat-dissipating calipers.
Baer Claw vs Wilwood: The Short Verdict
| Feature | Baer Claw | Wilwood |
|---|---|---|
| Pedal Feel | More linear, OEM+ feel | More aggressive, instant bite |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (Zinc plated rotors) | Good (Some require painting) |
| Noise Level | Low (Dust seals on most kits) | Moderate (Race-oriented kits can squeal) |
| Ease of Installation | Direct bolt-on with clear instructions | Direct bolt-on, but shims often needed |
Our Take: Choose Baer Claw for a quiet, reliable street/strip setup. Choose Wilwood for a pure track car.
2. Most Popular Kits: Baer Claw GT Plus vs. Extreme Plus
Baer Claw GT Plus Kit
The Baer Claw GT Plus is the #1 selling kit for a reason. It features 4-piston forged calipers and 13- or 14-inch 2-piece rotors. This is the perfect match for a 1970 Chevelle with a mild 383 stroker.
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Best for: Cars with 17-18 inch wheels.
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Key Benefit: No master cylinder upgrade required in most cases.
Baer Claw Extreme Plus
When you need racing-level thermal capacity, step up to the Baer Claw Extreme Plus. It uses 6-piston calipers and thicker 14-inch rotors.
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Best for: High-speed road racing or heavy cars (over 3,800 lbs).
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Key Benefit: Unreal fade resistance after multiple hard stops.
3. Application-Specific Guides
Baer Claw for Ford 9-Inch Rear End
If your project has a Ford 9-inch rear axle, you need a Baer Claw rear disc brake conversion. Baer offers specific parking brake provisions for the Ford 9-inch housing ends.
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Part to search: “Baer Claw 13″ rear kit for Ford 9-inch large bearing.”
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Pro Tip: Order the kit with the integrated drum-in-hat parking brake for street legality.
Baer Claw for 1970 Chevelle
The 1970 Chevelle is the ultimate pro-touring platform. For this car, the Baer Claw 14-inch rotors front kit combined with a rear disc conversion transforms the car.
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Recommended Setup:
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Front: Baer Claw GT Plus 14″ (P/N 4301049)
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Rear: Baer Claw 13″ for GM 12-bolt
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Wheel Fitment: Minimum 18-inch diameter.
4. Installation & Baer Claw Brake Kit Price
Installation Steps (Simplified)
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Remove old rotor and caliper.
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Install new Baer backing plate (spindle mount).
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Slide on the Baer Claw 14-inch rotors (or your chosen size).
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Mount caliper with supplied brackets. Torque to spec.
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Bleed brakes thoroughly. Baer recommends DOT 4 fluid.
What is the Baer Claw brake kit price?
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Baer Claw GT Plus: Approx. 1,600–2,200 per axle.
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Baer Claw Extreme Plus: Approx. 2,500–3,500 per axle.
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Rear Disc Conversion: Approx. 1,200–1,800.
Prices vary based on rotor size and caliper finish.
Conclusion: Stop with Confidence, Drive with Control
Choosing the right Baer Brakes Baer Claw system comes down to your vehicle’s weight, wheel size, and driving style. For most street machines, the Baer Claw GT Plus is unbeatable. Track rats need the Extreme Plus. And if you’re converting a Ford 9-inch or a 1970 Chevelle, Baer has a direct-fit solution.
Remember: A fast car is only as good as its ability to stop. Pair your new Baer Claw brakes with a reliable engine and transmission from Engines & Transmission TAN.