New rotors and pads (Stop Tech and Akebono)

L

LowandSlow

Member
Location
Oklahoma
Car
2011 FX35 RWD
Hey folks! I just wanted to share my experience with my gf's new rotors and pads I put on today. I know there are a bunch of different options out there so hopefully this post will help someone that is on the fence. My gf drives an 05 FX35 with 103,xxx miles and it was time for brakes. I was on the fence between the factory pads and rotors or going with an aftermarket setup. After a bunch of research on IS and other sites I decided to go with the Stop Tech sport rotors (slotted only) and Akebono PROACT pads. The whole setup was about $200-$250 less than it would have been if I would have put the factory stuff on there. The only problem I ran into throughout the process was getting the RR rotor off. Naturally it was rusted on so it took me about an hour to get it off (I had to replace a lug on the LR about 2 months ago and it took me that long to get it off as well). Everything else was smooth sailing besides it being 100 degrees outside with 80 % humidity. So far, I have only done Stop Tech's recommended bed in process (10, 60mph to 10mph stops without coming to a complete stop) so I haven't got the real feel for the performance yet. With only that being done, I can honestly say there was huge difference in her new setup vs the old factory. I am a very satisfied customer. I will try to and keep an update on how the performance, dust, wear, etc is as time goes on and we get a little more miles on them. First impression is they stop good, easy instillation and look killer!

Just a little help with part numbers if anyone needs them.

Her car is a 2005 build BEFORE November (I think it was this month). After November is a different part number for the rotors.

Stop Tech sport rotors (Slotted only)
RR 126.42078SR RF 126.42080SR
LR 126. 42078SL LR 126.42080SL

Akebono PROACT pads
F ACT969 R ACT905

If anyone is considering this setup, I don't think you will be disappointed.

Hopes this helps someone! :good:
 
Nice. You'll love the Akebono ProAct...dustless and squeal free. About the rear rotor, it may have been the parking brake pad that holding it back. If you pry off the rubber plug, align it over the brake shoe sproket, stick a flat head screw driver into the access hole and flip the sprocket a couple turns upward to back the brake shoes should make the job a much easier.

Do report back on how this combo wotks out.
 
I did Centric Premium Rotors and the Akebono ProAct pads with some help from Andy and Chris and I love them.
 
twoplayer said:
Thanks for sharing. By the way did you bled the system after installing the new rotor and pads?
Click to expand...

You dont bleed brakes for just a pad/rotor change, however if you touched the lines or hoses then yes. I would change the fluid though after couple years and bleed then
 
Nice write up / I went with the Akebono with a Centric rotor. No dust, no squeals, no vibration on braking (I think the old ones were in bad shape).

Had the same challenges with installation but used a long rod from Ace to get leverage. Brakes aren't as hard to diy as I thought. Glad I tackled it - learned a lot.
 
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