With regard to functionality, aluminum calipers work the same as cast-iron calipers. The important thing to keep in mind is that aluminum is a softer metal than iron or steel, so extra care must be taken when handling aluminum calipers.
When you install the caliper, the banjo bolt gets fed through the end of the brake hose and mounts to the inlet of the caliper. The banjo bolt is made of steel, so be sure to thread them in straight (see photo 1). Hand tighten for the first five to seven turns, and avoid over-torquing them when tightening them down for good. If the bolt goes in crooked or is over-tightened, it could cross-thread and strip the aluminum casting (see photo 2). The same care should be taken when installing or removing the bleeder valve since it is also made of steel.
Courtesy of CARDONE ProTech.
