1999-2009 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
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I just replaced the front pads and rotors on my 1999 SE V6. I ordered a number of items from eEuroparts including plain Zimmerman rotors, serpentine belt and idler pulley and the timing belt idler pulley as well as some misc filters. However, I was interested in the new Akebono Euro ultra-premium ceramic pads offered at the Tire Rack. Like many folks, I was anxious to try something that didn't generate so much obvious brake dust but had the bite of the OE pads. Here's their marketing patter:
"Akebono is the first brake pad manufacturer to produce a true ceramic pad for European vehicles that delivers the same European pedal feel and stopping power as the Original Equipment (OE) pads. Akebono's exclusive clean wheel formulations help to eliminate the heavy brake dust issues normally associated with the OE pads, too, and a definitive control of noise, vibration and harshness is felt.
One hundred percent asbestos-free, the pads' Advanced Ceramic Technology helps to extend rotor life resulting in fewer rotor replacements (and additional dollars saved)."
So far so good. I've had them in for nearly 2 weeks and there is NO visible dust. They seem to be just about as grippy as my old OE pads now that they are nearly bedded in with the new rotors. Very nice modulation feel and absolutely quiet (no problems before either though). I iinstalled the pads with Permatex anti-squeal compound instead of the included loose plasticky peel&stick anti-noise shims they shipped. The pads already had steel shims and I didn't want to soften the pedal feel with anything compliant between the calipers and the pads.
BTW, aggressive bedding-in procedures are NOT recommended with these ceramic pads. If these last and don't chew up my rotors like the OE semi-metalic pads, I'll be very happy. When I bought the car, the dealer installed Brembo rotors at 62,000 km because the originals were under the wear limit for the safety inspection. Now at 96,500 km, the original pads had taken the Brembos too near the wear limit to have the rotors refaced!
I have to say these seem like they will be very good but I'll follow up in a few months to confirm.
Reg
posted by 142.161.98...
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