97 855R Terrible Brake Dust..Ceramic Pads or big brake kit?

koffinb · Post by **koffinb** » 23 Oct 2014, 21:19

Front brakes are starting to make a terrible noise when warmed up so I am assuming its time for new pads and rotors. However I am actually quite happy because the amount of dust on my wheels is ridiculos! I have read about the Akobono Ceramic pads, does anyone have any experience with those? Obviously brake feel and stopping power is what's most important to me but the factory pads are just a little too harsh on my bright silver volans. Another question I have is what are the benefits of a big brake kit? I had a pretty serious braking scare today where it felt like the pedal had some air or pressure in it for a brief second before finally pushing all the way down. Is a big brake kit overkill for a DD like this or should I look into it? If so which would you recommend?

Post by **Matty Moo** » 23 Oct 2014, 21:46

I use the Akebonos on my car. Very little dust, what does appear easily washes off and doesn't attach itself all over the car. No squeal of any kind either.

I like them, mainly because of the almost non-existent dust.

koffinb · Post by **koffinb** » 23 Oct 2014, 22:20

How is the braking power/feel compared to the original pads?

Post by **jreed** » 24 Oct 2014, 05:01

I have been using Akebono pads on the front of my '97 855 GLT for about 4 years. +1 on above comment that they leave little or no dust -- you will notice a huge reduction in dust over the Volvo OEM pads. As for stopping power, I think they're fine. My wife says they don't grab as quickly and require a stronger push on the pedal compared to the old pads -- she's probably right. I think the Akebono's grip is improved after they've been warmed up from the first stop or two.
I just bought a set of new Akebono pads, plus new Volvo rotors and rebuilt Volvo ATE calipers. I'm going to install it all in about a week or two.

koffinb · Post by **koffinb** » 24 Oct 2014, 07:24

jreed wrote:I have been using Akebono pads on the front of my '97 855 GLT for about 4 years. +1 on above comment that they leave little or no dust -- you will notice a huge reduction in dust over the Volvo OEM pads. As for stopping power, I think they're fine. My wife says they don't grab as quickly and require a stronger push on the pedal compared to the old pads -- she's probably right. I think the Akebono's grip is improved after they've been warmed up from the first stop or two.
I just bought a set of new Akebono pads, plus new Volvo rotors and rebuilt Volvo ATE calipers. I'm going to install it all in about a week or two.

So do your rear wheels still get dirtier than the front wheels?

Post by **jreed** » 24 Oct 2014, 08:15

Yes, there is more dust build up on the rear wheels than the fronts.

Post by **jblackburn** » 24 Oct 2014, 09:00

I have Akebono pads on both my Cruze and S70, and would highly recommend them. Little dust, excellent grip (equal to OEMs on the Volvo; much better than OEMs on the Chevy), and quiet. They seem to handle heat very well compared to the OEM pads on both cars as well, especially under aggressive braking.

Post by **scot850** » 24 Oct 2014, 11:40

I agree with most of the comments. Definitely a reduction on the front wheels that are fitted with Akebono pads and Volvo rotors. Don`t agree with the braking performance, particularly when cold. Even when warm they don`t give much feel or grip to standard pads. All 3 other family members say the same when comparing the 98 V70XC on standards (280mm rotors) v`s the 2000 V70R on Akebono (302mm rotors).

Having said that, I will put up with a little less performance/feel for the significant reduction on brake dust.
Another +ve is unlike other aftermarket brands, they don't squeel!

Neil

koffinb · Post by **koffinb** » 27 Oct 2014, 13:29

I really like the feel and pressure of the Original pads, but I guess I will have to sacrifice thats

Post by **j-dawg** » 27 Oct 2014, 17:26

I have Wagner Thermoquiets. They don't squeak, they scream.

There are still big wads of friction material left on them, but I'm considering replacement with Akebonos. The noise is awful. I feel bad driving at night, because there is no way anybody within a mile radius could sleep through the racket.

On the other hand, no dust, I guess.