Normally one of the first things I do with all on my BMWs is upgrade the brakes. I put Brembo, or ATE slotted rotors on the front, and cross-drilled on the rears, and replace the pads with PBR/Repco units. I then flush out all the fluid with ATE super blue, and then replace it every other year, alternating between ATE amber & blue. Just as an FYI brake fluid is hygroscopic (it absorbs water from the air). So, over time it brakes down and becomes less effective, and begins to contaminate and corrode the system. That's also why you shouldn't use fluid that's been sitting on the shelf opened.

Pony has solid rotors and pads, but since I'm going to be adding the Eibach suspension system, and have to virtually tear off all the brake system anyway..... Well, what the hell!

On my Non-BMWs I've started using slotted front rotors from Disk Brakes Australia. I use slotted in the front because you get the benefit of allowing the gas release, and water-wiping steam control, but you don't loose the rotor mass you do with cross-drilling. Therefore, your chances of warping are greatly reduced. The DBA rotors use what they call the "Kangaroo Paw" slotting pattern which is really efficient at relieving the pressures. Also, I've had zero issues with any warping using the DBAs, where I have had issues using the others on the BMWs. Although admittedly I do drive those just a wee bit harder (Threhold Breaking, Anyone?) Also, the only time I ever bothered with SS Braided brake lines was on my M3, back when I took it to the track. For the street it's just not needed.

For pads I've been using Akebono ceramics lately. They have very good longevity, stopping power, no squeel, and are dustless. I started having trouble getting PBR/Repcos, even for my BMWs, and found the Akebonos were a great replacement. Just as an note, I always use anti-squeel compound on the back of my pads during install. You can't go wrong!

As I mentioned, I'm going to do the brakes at the same time I do the Eibach install. Probably over the Xmas "Brake".. :-)

I'll keep you informed! You'll find project pictures under the "Twisty Turnies" Heading, since I did the brakes and handling work at the same time.

Thanks for stopping by and visiting with Pony and I.

MK

EMAIL: mkpony@mkpony.com

Brakes & Rotors