“Semi-metallic pads actually gain grip as they reach their operating temperature”
Volvo brake pads: I’m a huge fan of the theory that underlies and dictates how our cars work. When Scott at FCP emailed me with a new page they put up detailing the theory of braking as it applies to brake pads, a little voice (ok, some shouting) in my head directed me to post this on MVS.
Here’s how to change the rear brake pads and/or rotor on your 2001 S80 T6. This might apply to other models or years of the P2 cars. Sorry if some of the pics are out of focus – it was tough to hold on to everything with one hand and work the camera with the other. I had to replace the disc and pads on one wheel of my car because one of the factory pads (yes, Volvo brand) was machined improperly and got stuck in the caliper. It kept the pad in contact with the disc and wore a bevel on one side of the rotor. This time I decided to use Akebono ceramic pads and a Centric rotor (the rotor that got ruined was a Brembo). Sorry I couldn’t include all the pics…
MVS Sponsor FCP Euro wrote a nice summary of brake fluid. Like all automotive fields, this one has come a long way in the hundred+ years cars have existed. If you haven’t read the latest on brake fluid in a decade or two, or need to know if you can mix two different types of fluid, this is the reference for you.
It’s funny, most people when modding their cars, never think about upgrading the brakes. It’s usually bigger alloys, dump valves, induction kits, exhausts, sound system. But modding brakes is something that is usually on most folks “to do list”…
