Hey guys. I just had my ride in for its 30k mile service. They just called to say the pads are completely worn, and they need to measure the rotors still. I noticed a fantastic hesitation when I said I would just replace the pads myself and look at the rotors, so thats very pleasing (my favorite service dealer just went out of business, so I am stuck with these guys).

Anyway, if I really do have to replace both pads and rotor, I want I to make sure I get the best possible set for daily driving use. I dont race anymore, as my car is just for looks and sound at this point.

So really, if I can get something that will last a long time, be cost efficient, and perhaps not squeel or load up on brake rust, that would be the ideal set for me.

I have peeked around with searching but didnt find anything concrete for me.

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

(PS - I have never done pads/rotors before, I just told them that to see what the reaction would possibly be - is this something can be done by an amateur with just basic tools like a floor jack, socket wrenches, etc?)

 

hawk HPS pads will suit you well. Zumn did a great DIY on changing pads and that thread is located at the top of this section. If you think you need new rotors, I'd go with the RacingBreak 1-piece slotted (budget pricing)

 

hawk ceramics.

little dust.

 

I say Hawk Ceramics too.

 

What rotors would you pair them with if needed? And what site should I buy the pads/rotors from?

And just as a side question, apparently my battery tested as being weak, which actually I cant disagree with as I have noticed the last few months my car takes a few extra secs to start sometimes. I did some searching on these forums and came down to Optima. I am leaning towards going yellow since I *might* put in an amp and sub at some point. Any site you all recommend to get it at a good price?

 

I have the racing brake Slotted rotors with mine but I also track my car alot too. If your not tracking your car I would just stick to the OEM rotors.

I have no idea on the battery I use the Lightweight Braille battery and its not good for audio setups.

 

^I agree, Racing Brake do their research and make great pads. They will last long and aren't prone to cracking if you get drilled ones. If you want some let me know, I can get them for you for a good price. Send me a PM.

 

After researching the Hawk ceramics, my heart is pretty set on that.

Now its just down to rotors that will nicely complement the ceramics in terms of lifespan and keeping it quiet.

Still looking at the red or yellow top Optima bettery...

 

Never fear, Jedi is here!

1) Hawk Ceramics are great pads, I have them on my car and I have no regrets. Stopping power is good, they do not squeal (like OEM's), and the dust factor is much better.
I paired my pads with Racing Brake rotors, not because I track but because I was looking for a quality rotor and a little 'bling' at the same time.

According to www.onlinemazdaparts.com , the front OEM rotors are about $105 a pop, for $126 you could have slotted RB rotors. http://www.racingbrake.com/SearchRes...earch=rx890151 I know which route I'd go...


2) Battery: Red tops have great cranking power but if you're going to be adding stereo equipment (subwoofers / amp), then you're going to want a deep cycle like the Yellow Top.
I run a 1400 watt single channel amp to my subwoofers and my battery has yet to let me down. (Yellow top. Going on 3 years now)

hope that helps

 

I was secretly hoping you would arrive Jedi. I think I will also go with those rotors you pointed out and now I am totally sold on the ceramic pads. One question on the rotors, what the heck is the difference between the sport and non-sport front rotors?

On the battery, any recommendations where I should buy the battery? (especially the "R" version so I dont need to extend any cables)

EDIT: And for the obvious question of the day just to verify... if I roll with the Racing Brake rotors, I assume I must by the front set that you linked (http://www.racingbrake.com/SearchRes...earch=rx890151) and the rear set (http://www.racingbrake.com/RX8_REAR_...p/9017-111.htm)

 

I read your mind, these Jedi Powers come in handy from time to time.

Sport = Touring model or greater. I believe non-sport is for the base model 8's which had smaller rotors.

I bought the 35 Yellow Top from here: http://www.1st-optima-batteries.com/

And to answer your last question: yup, you'll need two fronts and two rears. They're different sizes so careful when you install them.

 

Awesome. By looking at their top-down view, it appears the D35 doesnt need an R version. No wonder I couldnt find it. Sheesh.

 

I dont need that Fancy Smancy stuff, but JEDI IS RIGHT! And I have a rear brake pad DIY, the front brakes are the same or even simpler, but you use a 6 inch C clamp instead. Check my DIY thread in my sig down here -VVV

 

Right now we have a special on all Racing Brake Rotors, Pads, BBK's and such.

Use Coupon code Racing Brake Special and it will get you 10% off your Brake Order.

The Ceramics are a great choice but, I love the ET500's as well; same characteristics as well but lower price than Hawk pads

You can check it out here:

https://www.fluidmotorsports.com/p-8...ccesories.aspx

 

Is the coupon code still good for 10% off or has it risen to 20% now???

 

^check your dates, this thread is 2 years old. Id suggest sending a PM to Brice and see what hes got going on right now

 

Never fear, Jedi is here! ha ha lmao

I've seen this a few times.

 

centric premium rotors here, they are cheap and as good as oem, more reliable than most drilled/slotted rotors. Stoptech and powerslot rotors are infact cut centric rotors i think, someone correct me if im wrong. Anyways you can get them for like 50-70bux a pop so even if they crack it wont be that big of a deal. I've had 4 track days on mine and they're still holding up good.

As for pads, i used to have project mu street pads, forgot the name but they worked really well, but i think as people suggested hawk hps is probably your best bet for a street pad, or carbotech bobcats. A forum member here is selling a set of the carbotech front pads for 90 bux i think

 

opps didnt read the whole thread lol