Nube installing rotors and pads?

[polizei]

I just landed the deal for my very 1st 911 One of my 1st projects in the coming months will be to replace the existing rotors and brake pads. I've never worked on cars much, but I've always wanted to learn. It seems to me that changing out rotors/pads would be a good beginner project. Any disagreements?

I was thinking about going with the "High Performance Drilled Brake Rotors" sold here on Pelican. Any opinions on that or which pads I should get? I have 17" cup wheels - not sure if that affects anything. Will I need anything else? Is there is book or article I should consult for this project? Thanks!

[Oh Haha]

My suggestion is to first get a copy of "101 Projects for your 911" by our host, Wayne Dempsey. The other mandatory book would be the Bentley manual for 911's. Depending on your year, of course.

I hjave to ask though, have you done any type of maintenance on other makes of cars? Now that it can't be done but a Porsche isn't a car I would suggest learning how to fix stuff on the first time. If you don;t have any idea on how or why parts do what they do. That could very dangerous.
You don't list your location but iam sure there is a Pelican around that would be willing to "tutor" you in the basics.

Don't take this the wrong way, it is only my opinion.

As far as what brakes to use, that depends on what you plan to do with your car.

[Komenda Fan]

I don't know, in many ways I think an air cooled 911 is an easier place to start if you want to learn vehicle maintenance. They aren't rocket science (I just think of all the things my car doesn't have!), there is a huge body of information (including this forum), and a lot of people willing to lend a hand. Don't be put off, I think changing the pads and rotors is a great place to start, and definetely get Wayne's 101 projects book.

[polizei]

I appreciate the straightforward advice, and I'm probably in need of more of that! I do understand the basic function of the brake components, but I don't have much experience with brakes to speak of. I've changed pads and rotors on a motorcycle - that's it.

I've listed my location - Lansdale is about 30 miles north of Philadelphia. It would be awesome if someone was up to "showing me the basics". I plan on driving it mostly off the track, but I would enjoy the better performance once I get on the track. Thanks for your help.

[Oh Haha]

I see from a different post that you have an 87. Bentley makes a manual for the Carrera years of 84-89.

If you 've done motorcycle brakes, you should be just fine in learning 911 brakes. Komenda is right, these cars ARE pretty simple in design. I do know 911 owners that have never turned a wrench on their car, though.
Have fun with it and soon you'll be needing a hand with your first engine drop.

[polizei]

OK, so if I go for it, which rotors and pads should I go with if I'm looking for all around better breaking performance for occasional track use?

I don't want spend anything more than $500 from what it would take to do a stock replacement. It appears I could go with the "High Performance Drilled Brake Rotors" sold on Pelican for a marginal premium. What about the larger 930 Zimmerman rotors? If I went with the 930 rotors do I have to replace anything else? I have a 1987 911 Carrera Coupe with 17" cup wheels. Thank you.

[dentist90]

There are varying opinions as to whether x-drilled actually stay any cooler than slotted or plain rotors. X-drilling will allow you to use larger discs while keeping the weight down. Many will say that the drill holes will allow better cooling, but remember that you are losing surface area with those holes. They do vent gases very well, but slots do a fine job of that as well, with less risk of cracking. Unless you are hard-core into racing I'd go with slotted rotors. I have x-drilled on my Eagle (which I don't track) and I think the pads make all the difference. I you want some real grab be prepared to be cleaning black residue off your wheels every weekend!

Disclaimer: My opinion and a bus pass will still only get you downtown.

[rs6er]

Common wisdom says that drilled rotors tend to crack. I'd stick to solid or slotted, if you must.

[polizei]

Which slotted rotors would you guys recommend as an upgrade from the stock rotors?

[mtbguy]

Originally posted by rs6er
Common wisdom says that drilled rotors tend to crack. I'd stick to solid or slotted, if you must.

I'm with this guy- I've had drilled ones crack prematurely on several cars. I love the slotted ones, and have used several different brands on a few different cars with good results.

Congrats on the purchase!

[dentist90]

Powerslot comes to mind, but there are several options available. Shop around for price. You'll have just as much trouble deciding on pads!!
Enjoy.

[BK911]

Go with stock. More than you'll ever need on the street. Probably more than you'll ever need on the track too. I ran stock brakes on an 86 Carrera many days on the track with no problems. I'd replace all the rubber lines and brake fluid too, unless you know it's been done recently.