Editing Standard Brake Improvements

[[category:Brakes and Wheels]]

== Introduction ==

The standard brakes on Aus built R31s are pretty useless. It is recommended for track use, turbo, or large power to upgrade the front brake calipers. For options to upgrade the brake calipers, see the "See Also" section at the bottom of this article. However, for members with little power over stock and just wanting to maximise their brake performance using the standard calipers, this article provides several recommendations.


== Front Brake Pads ==

Few brake pad options are available for the standard R31 front caliper. DB1105 is the Bendix part number, and only "CT" and "Heavy Duty" pads are available.

However, VR/VS Commodore front pads (DB1085) can be made to fit by filing approximately 5mm off the outer edges of the pads, as shown in this picture:


[[image:BrakePadMod.png]]


Bendix Ultimate pads are available in this part number which are much better pads. Presumably, other brands of brake pad (e.g. Hawk, Lucas, EBC, Race Brakes) to suit VR/VS Commodore can be modified in the same way to fit. 


== Rear Brake Pads ==

Commodore rear brake pads can also be used, but they do not include a 'notch' to lock the piston from spinning when the handbrake is used. If you wish to use these pads, you must use a tek screw (or similar) to replicate the notch in the pad to stop the piston from spinning, or you will end up with seized rear calipers.


== Rotors == 

Slotted rotors are available from both DBA and RDA. Cross drilled rotors are not recommended, as the cross drilled holes weaken the rotors giving them a tendency to crack.


It is also highly recommended to replace all wheel bearings. The front wheel bearings can be done easily at the same time as the front rotors, the rears will take a little more effort. 


== Brake Fluid == 

Brake fluid is one of the most important aspects of your brake system, and one of the most often overlooked. It should be replaced every year or two at most, and properly bled to remove all air bubbles in the system.


Good quality super dot 4 brake fluid is highly recommended. Examples include "Penrite SIN", "Motul RBF660" and "TRW GP600".


==See also==

[[Brake Upgrades Miscellaneous]]

[[GTS brake upgrade]]

[[R33 Brake Upgrade]]

[[Front Wheel Bearings]]




'''Contributors:''' Big Nugzy, kitto, Sexy Dave, Smity42