97 855R Finally addressing the brake dust issue

koffinb · Post by **koffinb** » 06 Jan 2015, 17:31

My front rotors have started making noise when braking after they've been warmed up so I have decided to replace them along with maybe the ceramic akebono pads. I have brand new rotors on the rear and I will probably be putting akebonos on the back as well to have an even shade of dirt on all wheels. My only concern is the lack of initial brake bite compared to the factory pads. Do I need to do anything to ensure they don't squeak or anything? I also wanted someone to shed light on the the Meyle rotors for me as well. I had a set on the rear of my BMWs and they did just fine. I am mainly attracted to them for the price.

Post by **jreed** » 07 Jan 2015, 05:01

I recently (Nov '14) installed my second set of Akebono ceramic pads at the front ('97 855 GLT 177K miles), plus new Vovlo OEM rotors and rebuilt ATE/Volvo calipers. To prevent noise, I would recommend using ATE Plastilube or another silicone based brake grease between the pads and piston and caliper bracket contact points. The reduction in brake dust is noticeable, and the car still stops quick and sure.
I'm about to replace the rear pads with Volvo OEM again. These pads still make some dust but it doesn't accumulate on the rear as quickly as it would on the front.
Just my two cents! Good luck!

Post by **E Showell** » 07 Jan 2015, 07:53

I love the Akebono ceramic pads. Virtually no noticeable dust and I didn't notice any reduction in braking performance, but I don't tailgate folks so I generally don't have to panic stop either.

instarx · Post by **instarx** » 07 Jan 2015, 17:22

Don't worry, there won't be any loss of braking performance - they can activate the ABS from the first stop. According to the package insert that came with my akebono pads you simply break them in for the long haul by driving and stopping gently for fifty miles or so. Absolutely no need for weird breaking-in or so-called "seating" procedures.

As for squeals, I didn't do anything special and have never heard one. I think early ceramic pads had problems with being too hard and gave ceramics a reputation for squealing, but that was fixed long ago by advances in pad composition.

I could not be happier with my akebono pads.

Post by **scot850** » 07 Jan 2015, 23:04

I have Akebono on the front and Volvo OE on rear. Get more dust on rear wheels than fronts.

I do find a difference with braking reduction when cold on the Akebonos, and it improves significantly when warm or the front pads heat up.

Neil.