Miata Mailing List: July 1993, Message #35
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   From: Al Jenab 
Subject: RE>Brakes
   Date: Tue, 6 Jul 1993 17:41:29 -0400


Fellow Miata Lovers,
Well, I didn't get much response from my earlier request for high
performance brake pad info.  The only reply involved some custom cut
carbon/kevlar pads for $370 (front only!!).  Needless to say, this was a bit
steep.

Nevertheless, I went to the track over the weekend (Car Guys school) with
my (new) stock front pads and sure enough, burned through another set in
no time.  Fortunately, I brought spares.  As to my worry about whether the
previously observed uneven wear pattern in the front pads was due to
faulty brake system components or to weight/load balance, I think I
solved that one.  I had an instructor in the car the whole time and got a
wear pattern in this set of pads consistent with the extra weight on the
passenger side.  So bad hardware probably wasn't the culprit.


I spoke with some of the serious racer types about burning through my
pads so quickly.  When I told them I was running stock pads, they sort of
shook their heads knowingly, as one does with a child.  They recommended
I try a brand called Cool Carbon.  I have ordered a set of their "blue"
compound (front and rear) from Racer's Wholesale.  Price was $120 a set
(front) and about the same for the rear.  They are supposed to last much
longer, are allegedly fade resistant and "rotor friendly".  If they last even

twice as long as stock (i.e. two days instead of one), the extra expense
will be worth it.  Anybody have experience with this particular brand?
I'll post the results of my experience with them to the list after I have a
chance to run them on a track.
-Al