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Brake Testing
• Make sure pedal is firm: Hold firm pressure on pedal for several minutes, it should remain in position without
sinking. If pedal sinks toward floor, check system for fluid leaks. DO NOT drive vehicle if pedal does not stay firm or can be pushed to the floor with normal pressure.
• At very low speed (2-5 mph) apply brakes hard several times while turning steering from full left to full right, repeat
several times. Remove the wheels and check that components are not touching, rubbing, or leaking.
• Carefully examine all brake components, brake lines, and fittings for leaks and interference.
• Make sure there is no interference with wheels or suspension components.
• Drive vehicle at low speed (15-20 mph) making moderate and hard stops. Brakes should feel normal and
positive. Again check for leaks and interference.
• Always test vehicle in a safe place where there is no danger to (or from) other people or vehicles.
• Always wear seat belts and make use of all safety equipment.
WARNING • DO NOT DRIVE ON UNTESTED BRAKES
BRAKES MUST BE TESTED AFTER INSTALLATION OR MAINTENANCE
MINIMUM TEST PROCEDURE
Pad and Rotor Bedding
BEDDING STEPS FOR NEW PADS AND ROTORS – ALL COMPOUNDSOnce the brake system has been tested and determined safe to operate the vehicle, follow these steps for the bedding of all new padmaterials and rotors. These procedures should only be performed on a race track, or other safe location where you can safely andlegally obtain speeds up to 65 MPH, while also being able to rapidly decelerate.
• Begin with a series of light decelerations to gradually build some heat in the brakes. Use an on-and-off the pedal technique by
applying the brakes for 3-5 seconds, and then allow them to fully release for a period roughly twice as long as the deceleration cycle.If you use a 5 count during the deceleration interval, use a 10 count during the release to allow the heat to sink into the pads androtors.
• After several cycles of light stops to begin warming the brakes, proceed with a series of medium to firm deceleration stops to
continue raising the temperature level in the brakes.
• Finish the bedding cycle with a series of 8-10 hard decelerations from 55-65 MPH down to 25 MPH while allowing a proportionate
release and heat-sinking interval between each stop. The pads should now be providing positive and consistent response.
• If any amount of brake fade is observed during the bed-in cycle, immediately begin the cool down cycle. • Drive at a moderate cruising speed, with the least amount of brake contact possible, until most of the heat has dissipated from the
brakes. Avoid sitting stopped with the brake pedal depressed to hold the car in place during this time. Park the vehicle and allow thebrakes to cool to ambient air temperature.
COMPETITION VEHICLES
• If your race car is equipped with brake cooling ducts, blocking them will allow the pads and rotors to warm up quicker and speed up
the bedding process.
• Temperature indicating paint on the rotor and pad edges can provide valuable data regarding observed temperatures during the
bedding process and subsequent on-track sessions. This information can be highly beneficial when evaluating pad compounds andcooling efficiencies.
