Brake pads: Budget Vs Performance

[sbtUK]

Well... I start my new job on Monday. A month from then: I shal be very slightly happier

I was thinking about treating myself to some nice brake pads. I've got basic Halfords ones on at the moment (all I could afford), and after relitively firm braking for just a few corners they get hot and hardly work at all. I end up having to stop in a lay-by for a quarter of an hour before they've cooled down enough for me to drive on.

The discs are delphi lockheed and are quite new (but fully worn in) - I assume that it's more likely that the halfords pads are to blame.

So a few questions for those in the know:

1. Is it likely that decent brake pads will make a difference?
2. What brand of pads would you recommend?

Thanks guys

[Prince]

Personally I would go with Brembo. As far as quality brakes are concerned, Brembro are top notch. Another company I'm aware of are D2 Racing. I would also go for the highest quality you can afford. Other pads are the yellow stuff, red stuff and green stuff pads. Haven't heard fantastic things about them though.

As for the difference yes Brembro pads will be much more effecive than Halfords ones!

[rockape]

not the best i know but, i've fitted mintex discs and pads to both my coupe's and i'm very happy with them. the brake box kit is the one i bought very little brake dust to and not to expensive.

[ascaudio]

pads will make a difference but youll eat standard discs like cheese so yes stoppings very important id get discs and pads but groved discs not drilled there bloody dangerous and crack under heat.

[pgarner]

i wouldnt touch the redstuff pads, along with other track racing pads, as these need to be kpet hot. from cold a 40 tonner will outbrake you.

[HDi fun]

I have to get my discs and pads done all round soon. Rears actually probably OK, will check wear next time wheels come off.

I've previously used EBC Greenstuff and found them to be a load of rubbish in the Pug, but worked well in the Nissan. Also been told that red stuff is OK in heavy road cars, which is something I thought questionable. Much like PG I was under the impression that they need extensive warm up.

I currently use ATE discs and pads, which is the OEM brand but I do seem to get some judder problems after some time. Which I am putting down to uneven heating/cooling.

SHould I fit some better discs? If so, which ones? And will I get a better setup by using pads from the disc manufacturer? There's too much choice: Brembo, Tarox, Black Diamond etc.

Any ideas?

[waynne]

PAGID pads are pretty good performers. In terms of disks there is a lot of choice The Brembos and Tarox get my vote. Green stuff also do disks but I don't know what they are like?

Greenstuff pads are a low brake dust formulation which is good but they are not very hard wearing. Ceramic disks are also becomming popular options.

Braided hoses and sythetic brake fluid will help reduce the sponginess on brakes - I had both on my Rover and it made a noticable difference.