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ThomS
10-23-2006, 05:04 PM
I am sure this topic has been covcered many times, if so I am sorry.
Before answering remember I am a beginner in this area. ( and many others)
1. How can you tell when it is important to replace brakes, besides the norm.(squeaking and scraping)?
2. what are some of the favorite brake pads out there?
3. Should I now with a SC get into a bigger brake or are the Stock ones ok? ( so far they have been fine.) Thanks in advance for any info.:?:
chuckerants
10-23-2006, 05:36 PM
I am sure this topic has been covcered many times, if so I am sorry.
Before answering remember I am a beginner in this area. ( and many others)
1. How can you tell when it is important to replace brakes, besides the norm.(squeaking and scraping)?
You could look at how thick the brake pads are by removing one of the wheels and taking a peek.

Also, you should flush and bleed your brake system every couple of years.

2. what are some of the favorite brake pads out there?
3. Should I now with a SC get into a bigger brake or are the Stock ones ok? ( so far they have been fine.) Thanks in advance for any info.:?:
I still have my stock brake system, except for the pads. I have the Axxis Ultimates. The reason I got a different pad is for that initial "bite" when it rains, it has an advantage over the OEM pads. But, they do dust a LOT more than stock.

Unless you are on a race track as often as Tom, I would just stick with the OEM pads and rotors.
ThomS
10-23-2006, 06:41 PM
Yes I understand what you are saying chuck,I did what you suggested already. But how far down can you wear the pads? It does not look you can go all the way, as thick as the pads are. There seems to be a clip about half way point.
chuckerants
10-23-2006, 07:57 PM
Yes I understand what you are saying chuck,I did what you suggested already. But how far down can you wear the pads? It does not look you can go all the way, as thick as the pads are. There seems to be a clip about half way point.

IIRC, when the pads start getting as thin as the backing plate, you should start thinking about replacing the pads. As for rotors, regular OEM rotors are fine. Don't let anyone talk you into drilled, or slotted.
ThomS
10-23-2006, 08:06 PM
WHy what is wrong with drilled or slotted?
99mx5
10-23-2006, 08:21 PM
Before I bought the coldside, I installed EBC Green Stuff brake pads. I really like how they bite when autocrossing and on the street. The Green Stuff pads need to be warmed up to brake effectively. The brakes feel feel faded on the first stop. The Green Stuff pads work well on the track, but I autox more than I race on the track. If I were to track the car more often, I'd probably get Hawk brake pads.

I was also thinking of upgrading the brakes. I looked at the kits out there and I know I can get more out of my car if I get a big brake kit, but my car isnt a full race car. I feel that the stock calipers with good fluid and stiff hoses and performance pads will suffice for the type of driving that I do.

Oddly enough, I just ordered DOT approved stainless steel brake lines and other toys from TrackDogRacing.com. Gary is a hell of a nice guy, and I learned a few things about performance parts while chatting with him.
Hope this helps! :)
chuckerants
10-23-2006, 08:55 PM
WHy what is wrong with drilled or slotted?

They are a waster of money as they really don;t do anything for our Miatas. They're bling.