19/10/2010
Mastering Your Ferodo Racing Brake Pads: A Comprehensive Bedding-In Guide
For any performance-oriented driver, the choice of brake pads is paramount. When you opt for Ferodo Racing brake pads, you're investing in a product renowned for its superior stopping power, fade resistance, and overall track-day prowess. However, simply fitting these high-performance pads isn't enough to guarantee their optimal functionality. A crucial, yet often overlooked, step is the bedding-in process. This meticulous procedure ensures that the pad material is properly transferred to the brake disc surface, creating a unified friction couple that delivers consistent and powerful braking. Failing to bed in your Ferodo Racing pads correctly can lead to reduced performance, premature wear, and even potential damage to your braking system. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to achieve the best possible results from your new Ferodo Racing brake pads.
Why is Bedding-In So Important?
Brake pads and discs are not static components. When new, both surfaces are relatively smooth and unblemished. The bedding-in process is essentially a controlled way of creating a bond between the friction material of the brake pad and the surface of the brake disc. During this process, a thin, even layer of pad material is transferred onto the disc. This layer, often referred to as a friction film, is what allows the pads to grip the discs effectively. Without this film, the pads might initially feel grabby or inconsistent, and their ultimate stopping power will be significantly compromised. Moreover, the heat generated during bedding-in helps to cure the resins within the pad compound, further enhancing its performance characteristics and resistance to high temperatures, which is crucial for racing applications.
The Ferodo Racing Recommended Bedding Procedure
Ferodo, a name synonymous with braking excellence, provides a specific and effective method for bedding in their racing compounds. Adhering to these instructions is key to unlocking the full potential of your investment.
Step 1: Initial Trial Brakes
The core of the Ferodo bedding procedure involves a series of controlled braking applications. The recommended number is between 25 to 30 trial brake applications. Each application should last for approximately 4 seconds. During these applications, you should aim to use around 50% of your normal race pedal pressure. This means applying firm pressure, but not an emergency stop. The goal is to generate moderate heat and begin the transfer of pad material onto the disc surface without overheating or glazing the new pads.
To make this process more efficient, you can perform these trial brakes both along straights and through bends. While braking in a straight line is ideal for even application, incorporating bends allows you to complete the required number of applications more quickly, especially if you are on a track day or race circuit. The key is to ensure that the brakes are engaged for the specified duration and with consistent, moderate pressure.
Step 2: Cooling Down
Following the initial 25-30 trial brakes, it is crucial to allow the braking system to cool down. This is typically achieved by driving the vehicle at a moderate speed for a few minutes without making any significant braking applications. The aim is to let the heat dissipate gradually. Avoid coming to a complete stop with the brake pedal firmly depressed for an extended period, as this can cause uneven transfer of pad material and potentially lead to hot spots or glazing on the discs and pads.
Step 3: Repeat and Refine
Once the brakes have cooled slightly, you will repeat the process. This second phase involves a slightly more aggressive approach. You'll again perform a series of braking applications, perhaps in the range of 10-15, but this time using around 70-80% of your normal race pedal pressure. Again, these applications should be for a duration of approximately 3-4 seconds. The increased pressure helps to further bed in the pads and discs, creating a more robust friction surface.
After this second set of applications, allow the brakes to cool down once more. This cooling phase is just as important as the braking itself, allowing the heat to stabilise and the friction film to properly cure.
Step 4: Final Checks and Driving
Once the cooling process is complete, you can begin driving normally. However, it's advisable to avoid any hard or emergency braking for the first few miles. Continue to drive in a manner that allows for gentle braking applications, further ensuring the evenness of the friction material transfer. You might notice a slight improvement in pedal feel and stopping power as you continue to drive.
Tips for Optimal Bedding
- Environment: Ideally, perform the bedding-in procedure in a controlled environment like a race track or a large, empty car park. This allows you to brake effectively without endangering yourself or others.
- Disc Condition: Ensure your brake discs are in good condition. If your discs are heavily grooved, glazed, or have significant run-out, it's recommended to replace them before installing new pads. Bedding-in new pads on worn or damaged discs will not yield optimal results and can even damage the new pads.
- Pad Material Transfer: The goal is to achieve a uniform, dark grey or purplish hue on the surface of the brake discs. This indicates a successful transfer of pad material. If you see shiny spots or uneven colouration, it suggests the bedding-in process may not have been entirely successful and might require a repeat.
- Avoid Overheating: While heat is necessary, excessive overheating can damage the pads. If you notice a strong burning smell or significant smoke, ease off and allow the brakes to cool down more thoroughly.
- Consistency is Key: The most crucial aspect of bedding-in is consistency. Ensure you maintain the specified pedal pressure and application duration for each step.
Understanding Pad Compounds
Ferodo offers a range of racing brake pads, each designed for specific applications and temperature ranges. While the general bedding-in procedure remains similar, some very aggressive compounds might benefit from slightly more extended bedding cycles or a higher number of initial applications. Always refer to the specific product information provided by Ferodo for any particular compound you are using. However, the principles of controlled heat application and proper cooling are universal.
Consider the following comparison of typical racing pad characteristics:
| Pad Compound | Typical Operating Temperature Range (°C) | Initial Bite | Fade Resistance | Wear Rate | Bedding-In Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DS2500 | 20°C - 500°C | Medium | Good | Medium | Standard |
| DS3000 | 100°C - 650°C | Strong | Very Good | Medium-High | Standard to Slightly Increased |
| DSUNO | 150°C - 750°C | Very Strong | Excellent | High | Slightly Increased |
Note: These are general guidelines, and actual performance can vary based on vehicle, driving style, and disc material.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a guide, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Not bedding-in at all: This is the most significant mistake, leading to compromised performance and premature wear.
- Overheating during bedding: Applying too much pressure too early can glaze the pads and discs, rendering them ineffective.
- Inconsistent application: Not performing the correct number of applications or varying pedal pressure too much can lead to uneven material transfer.
- Not allowing adequate cooling: Stopping immediately after bedding can cause uneven cooling and material transfer.
- Bedding-in on damaged discs: New pads need a good surface to bed into.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the bedding-in process typically take?
A: The entire process, including initial brakes, cooling, and repeat brakes, can take approximately 15-30 minutes of driving, depending on the environment and how quickly you can perform the braking applications.
Q: Can I bed-in my Ferodo racing pads on the road?
A: While it's possible on public roads, it's not ideal due to traffic and speed restrictions. The best results are achieved in a controlled environment where you can safely perform the required braking applications.
Q: What if I don't see the characteristic colour on my discs?
A: It might take a few more applications than specified, or the initial bedding might not have been perfectly even. Continue with gentle driving and occasional moderate braking, and the surface should even out over time. If performance remains subpar, a re-bedding procedure might be necessary.
Q: My new pads feel worse than my old ones. Is this normal?
A: Initially, before proper bedding, new pads can sometimes feel less responsive. This is normal. Once the bedding-in process is complete and the friction film is established, you should notice a significant improvement in stopping power and pedal feel.
Conclusion
The bedding-in procedure for Ferodo Racing brake pads is a critical step that should never be skipped. By following the recommended steps of controlled braking applications and adequate cooling, you ensure that your pads and discs work in harmony to deliver the exceptional stopping power and reliability that Ferodo is known for. A well-bedded set of Ferodo Racing pads will not only enhance your driving experience but also contribute to the longevity and performance of your entire braking system. Invest the time in the bedding process, and you'll be rewarded with confidence-inspiring braking performance when you need it most.
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