Alcon Big Brake Kits: Performance Unleashed

Alcon Brake Kits: More Than Just Stopping

Brakes are arguably the most crucial active safety system on any vehicle, but for those who truly appreciate the art of driving, they represent far more than mere stopping power. The finest braking systems inspire confidence, enhance the sheer joy of driving, and can shave precious seconds off lap times – often more effectively and affordably than a significant power increase. This is precisely the philosophy that led to the founding of Alcon. For over three decades, Alcon has been at the forefront of braking innovation, creating not only exceptional brake systems but also high-performance clutch and pedal box solutions for some of the world's most demanding and discerning clients.

Alcon's expertise, honed through extensive involvement in motorsport, translates directly into their aftermarket brake kits. They possess the capability to utterly transform the braking performance of a vast array of vehicles, whether for everyday driving or the rigours of high-intensity track use. Every Alcon braking system undergoes testing far beyond the limits that even the most demanding driver could impose. However, reducing stopping distances is merely the beginning of the Alcon experience. As both racers and passionate road car enthusiasts themselves, Alcon places immense importance on the 'feel' that their brakes provide. They understand that their systems must perform flawlessly from the very first application in sub-zero temperatures to the final corner of a record-breaking lap. This means being lightweight yet exceptionally durable, quiet in operation but utterly resistant to fade, even under the most extreme conditions.

The Alcon Advantage: Engineering Excellence

Alcon brake kits are meticulously engineered to deliver unparalleled braking performance, representing the pinnacle of aftermarket upgrades. Whether you opt for an Advantage Extreme brake kit or the range-topping RC4/RC6 kit, you can be assured that Alcon brakes excel in every critical area. Their commitment to quality and performance is evident in every component.

Alcon Caliper Lineup: A Closer Look

Alcon offers a comprehensive range of calipers, each designed for specific applications and performance characteristics. Understanding the nuances of each can help you select the perfect upgrade for your vehicle.

Advantage Extreme Series: Road and Track Prowess

The Advantage Extreme brake kits feature Alcon's renowned Mono6 (CAR97) or Mono4 (CAR98) calipers. These kits are engineered to provide exceptional braking performance for both everyday driving and spirited track sessions. They are ideal for enthusiasts seeking a tangible uplift in their car's braking capabilities. Alcon provides comprehensive upgrade kits, including all necessary components for a straightforward installation.

• CAR97 (Mono6): This 6-piston monobloc caliper is gravity die-cast from high-strength aluminium alloy for an optimal strength-to-weight ratio. Its monobloc piston design ensures high stiffness for a firm pedal feel with minimal weight. Staggered piston bore sizes promote even pad wear, and pin-mounted pads contribute to low threshold pressure and reduced noise. Designed for front fitment.
• CAR98 (Mono4): Similar in construction to the CAR97, the CAR98 is a 4-piston monobloc caliper, suitable for both front and rear applications. It shares the same benefits of high stiffness, low weight, staggered piston bores, and pin-mounted pads.

RC4 & RC6 Series: Forged for Performance

The RC4 and RC6 kits utilise Alcon's CAR69 (4-piston) and CAR70 (6-piston) forged calipers. These calipers are precision-machined from forged aluminium alloy and are optimised for vehicles already equipped with substantial OEM brake systems, such as the Nissan GT-R, BMW M3, and BMW 1M. They feature staggered pistons for even pad wear and pistons crafted from a proprietary steel alloy known for its exceptional thermal resistance.

• CAR70: A 6-piston forged caliper designed for front fitment. Its two-piece forged aluminium construction and high-temperature seal materials, as used in top-tier motorsport, make it a formidable choice. It accommodates disc diameters ranging from Ø380-410mm and typically fits wheels of 18 inches and larger.
• CAR69: This 4-piston forged caliper is suitable for both front and rear applications. It shares the robust two-piece forged aluminium design and high-temperature seals of the CAR70. It is designed for disc diameters between Ø330-360mm and also fits wheels of 18 inches and larger.

Note: These kits are currently available exclusively with DBA 5000 Series Rotors.

Race Calipers: Ultimate Control and Durability

Alcon also produces a highly regarded line of race-specific calipers, favoured in demanding disciplines like GT racing, touring cars, and LMP. These calipers are built for the ultimate in braking control and resilience.

• CAR89 (6-Piston Billet Race Caliper): Designed for general race use, GT, and endurance applications. Constructed from aerospace-grade billet aluminium alloy for high strength and low weight. Features differential piston diameters to minimise pad taper wear, stainless steel pistons as standard, anti-knock back springs, and a bolted pad retainer for easy pad changes. Not dust-sealed. Accommodates disc diameters of ø355 - 390mm.
• CR6380 (6-Piston Forged Race Caliper): Ideal for touring cars, one-make series, and general race use. Its radial mounting design ensures maximum rigidity and a consistent pedal feel. It also features differential piston diameters and can be optioned with stainless steel pistons to reduce heat transfer. Equipped with anti-knock back springs and hard stainless steel wear plates. Not dust-sealed. Accommodates disc diameters of ø343 - 380mm.
• CRB343 (4-Piston Forged Race Caliper): A popular choice for rally, Group N+, touring car, and general race applications. It offers a rigid, radially mounted design for consistent pedal feel. Features differential piston diameters and anti-knock back springs. Pad changes require caliper removal. Not dust-sealed. Accommodates disc diameters of ø280 - 343mm.
• CAR36 (4-Piston Billet Race Caliper): Specifically for rear applications, this caliper is built from billet aluminium alloy. It features stainless steel pistons, anti-knock back springs, and a bolted pad retainer for ease of maintenance. Not dust-sealed. Accommodates disc diameters of ø280 - 343mm.

Alcon 2-Piece Floating Discs: Superior Thermal Management

Alcon's Advantage Extreme discs are engineered for optimal bite, thermal stability, and durability. They combine a special Alcon-developed iron alloy friction ring with an aerospace-specification aluminium alloy 'bell' or hat. This two-piece floating design allows for thermal expansion, minimising judder and ensuring consistent performance.

Key Disc Features Across the Alcon Range:

• Unique Crescent Grooves: Provide excellent bite without the durability issues associated with drilled discs.
• Directional Curved Cooling Vanes: Engineered for maximum airflow and cooling efficiency.
• Floating Disc System: Designed to manage thermal expansion, reducing the tendency for judder.

DBA 5000 T3 Slotted Discs: Advanced Rotor Technology

When paired with Alcon kits, DBA 5000 T3 rotors offer a compelling alternative. These are premium two-piece, direct-replacement brake rotors that combine high-carbon cast iron friction rings with T6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminium hats. Secured with NAS bolts and crimp nuts, they are built for the most demanding conditions.

DBA 5000 T3 Features:

• T3 Slot Design: Features 48 precisely machined, tri-symmetrical slots that enhance pad cleaning, gas and dust expulsion, leading to a quieter, more responsive, and smoother braking experience.
• XG150 High Carbon Alloyed Iron: Ensures superior thermal stability and wear resistance.
• Kangaroo Paw Ventilation: Utilises a unique pillar design for enhanced cooling.
• Thermographic Temperature Monitoring: Built-in indicators to help monitor brake temperatures.
• Universal Slot Design: Eliminates the need for specific left and right rotors.

DBA 5000 T3 rotors are recommended for a wide spectrum of applications, from street driving and SUVs to track days, club racing, and rally cars.

What's Included in an Alcon Big Brake Kit?

Alcon Big Brake Kits are comprehensive packages designed to provide everything needed for a significant braking upgrade, excluding consumables like brake pads and fluid. A typical kit includes:

• (2) Alcon Calipers (4 or 6-piston)
• (2) Alcon Special Iron Alloy Discs or DBA 5000 T3 Slotted Discs
• (2) Vehicle-Specific Bell Assemblies with Fixings
• (2) Vehicle-Specific Caliper Brackets with Fixings
• (2) Vehicle-Specific ADR Approved Braided Brake Lines (Goodridge or HEL Performance)

Brake Pads: Your Choice for Customisation

Brake pads are supplied separately to allow the end-user to select the compound that best suits their specific driving requirements. Alcon offers a range of Hawk Performance pad compounds, catering to everything from low-dust, quiet street performance to high-temperature, high-friction motorsport applications.

Important Considerations for Fitment

When upgrading to Alcon Big Brake Kits, several factors need to be considered:

• Wheel Clearance: Larger brake kits may necessitate the use of larger diameter wheels or wheel spacers. Alcon can provide fitment diagrams upon request to help you confirm compatibility with your existing wheels.
• Rear Kits and Parking Brakes: Rear brake kits designed for vehicles with drum parking brakes are compatible with OEM handbrake assemblies but are generally recommended for off-road use. For vehicles with mechanical caliper parking brakes (e.g., Honda Civic EG/EK) or electronic caliper parking brakes (e.g., VW Golf/Audi), specific hydraulic park brake assemblies or secondary calipers may be required and are sold separately.
• Rotor Hat Wear: The aluminium hats on two-piece rotors are a wear item and may require replacement over time with regular use.

Alcon: Trusted by the Best

Alcon's pedigree in motorsport is undeniable. For over 30 years, they have supplied braking, clutch, and pedal box systems to numerous world-renowned automotive manufacturers and race teams. Brands like McLaren, Bentley, Aston Martin, Volkswagen, and Citroen have all relied on Alcon for their competition vehicles across disciplines ranging from GT racing and World Rally Championship to Formula E and World Rallycross. This trust is built on Alcon's commitment to not only delivering superior components but also providing rapid turnaround times, personalised customer relationships, and a relentless drive for technological innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Alcon brake kits different from standard brakes?

Alcon brake kits are engineered with motorsport-derived technology, offering significantly improved stopping power, heat management, pedal feel, and durability compared to standard OEM brake systems. They utilise larger, higher-quality components and advanced materials.

Are Alcon brake kits suitable for daily driving?

Yes, many Alcon kits, such as the Advantage Extreme series, are designed with street use in mind, offering a balance of performance and refinement for everyday driving. However, race-specific calipers are not dust-sealed and may produce more noise.

Do I need new wheels to fit Alcon brake kits?

It is possible. Larger brake kits often require wheels with greater internal clearance. Alcon can provide fitment diagrams to help you assess compatibility with your current wheels or guide you on suitable replacements.

Can I fit Alcon brake kits myself?

While Alcon kits come with comprehensive instructions, fitting big brake kits involves working on critical safety systems. If you are not experienced with automotive brake system installation, it is highly recommended to have the kit fitted by a qualified mechanic.

Why are brake pads not included in the kit?

Brake pads are sold separately to allow customers to choose the specific friction compound that best matches their driving style and intended use, whether it's for street, track days, or full-on racing.

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