E-Class (W211) 2003-2009

Proper way to break-in new rotors?

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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 06:08 PM
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Proper way to break-in new rotors?

I just put new slotted/drilled rotors on all 4 corners with new pads up front. Do I need to break these in a certain way or can I just let 'er rip and call it a day?
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 06:53 PM
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I follow these break-in procedures whenever I change my brake pads. You should ask your shop if they already broke-in your pads/rotors for you.

All brake pads have to be bedded-in with the rotor they will be used against. Even though Hawk Performance burnishes the pads in the factory, a transfer film must be generated at the pad and rotor interface for optimal performance. Whether it is new or used rotors, you must follow the bed-in steps listed below to maximize brake performance.

After installing new brake pads, make 6 to 10 stops from approximately 30-35 mph applying moderate pressure.

Make an additional 2 to 3 hard stops from approximately 40 to 45 mph.

DO NOT DRAG BRAKES!

Allow 15 minutes for brake system to cool down.

After step 4 your new brake pads are ready for use.
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 06:58 PM
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I had the wife's Infiniti done due to a recall and was told that the new rotors must be brought up to temperature in a prudent manner to burn off the contaminants on the rotors, about 100 miles of normal driving should do it. Not sure of course if this applies to I-rotors or not.
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:20 PM
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I got Pagids and they recommended dragging the brakes to brake them in. I guess the proceedures vary.
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:25 PM
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The only really bad thing you can do with new rotors is to get them really really hot and then poor water on them. you'll warp them really quick.
Sooo, if you live someplace cold, then take it easy on the heat. And if you're gonna wash the car make sure to let the rotors cool waaay down before water.
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:35 PM
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Lots of difference of opinion on this one. Hmmmmmmm
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:40 PM
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Follow all the advice. That'll pretty much mean don't drive the car and don't wash it either. LOL.
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:46 PM
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Originally Posted by trezaei
Follow all the advice. That'll pretty much mean don't drive the car and don't wash it either. LOL.

Oh Man I needed that today.. LMFAO. There you go Clayton
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 07:59 PM
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Originally Posted by trezaei
Follow all the advice. That'll pretty much mean don't drive the car and don't wash it either. LOL.
before bedding a pad, make sure your brake system is warmed up...

Since everyone has thrown in there own opinions, I will throw in the directions porterfield uses, and also the same steps I have taken for my W163, which is notorious for squealling, and since I have used these directions, never again have I had to deal with less then perfect brakes.

-20 gentle slow downs from 30 to 5mph, then 10 to 20 normal stops from 35 allowing a half mile cool down between stops(I give a generous amount of cooling time, but never a half mile, depends on weather too)

never come to a full stop while braking, as sometimes completely stoping while bedding will transfer material from the pad to the rotor which will eventually lead to rotor warp. Be careful not to heat the pads up too quickly as it will harden the brake face and negatively impact performance. While coming to a complete stop you may want to engage the emergency brake.

This is my own interpretation of what porterfield suggests, and it has worked great for myself.
-Pete
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Old Feb 9, 2007 | 08:25 PM
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Screw it!


I'm just gonna drag my feet outside the door. Flintstone style, baby.


Thanks for the input guys.
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