Track Day Brakes: New vs. Used

Can you use new brakes on a track day?

Embarking on your first track day is an exhilarating experience. As you prepare your vehicle and yourself for the unique demands of circuit driving, questions inevitably arise. One of the most critical aspects of car preparation, especially for the intense braking required on track, concerns the condition of your brakes. Specifically, many enthusiasts wonder: Can you use new brakes on a track day? The short answer is yes, but with a crucial caveat: they must be properly bedded in. This guide will delve into the intricacies of track day preparation, focusing on the vital role of your braking system.

Preparing Your Car for the Track

A track day pushes your vehicle far beyond its usual road-going limits. Components that perform admirably on public roads can quickly succumb to the intense heat and stress of circuit driving. While tyres, engine cooling, and suspension are all vital, the braking system is often the first to show its limitations. It's not just about having brakes; it's about having brakes that can perform reliably lap after lap.

The Critical Role of Brakes on Track

Unlike road driving, where braking is intermittent, track days involve repeated, heavy deceleration from high speeds. This sustained braking generates significant heat, which can lead to brake fade (a loss of braking efficiency) or even catastrophic failure if the system is not up to the task. Therefore, ensuring your brakes are in peak condition is paramount for both performance and safety.

Using New Brakes on a Track Day: The Bedding-In Process

Using brand new brake pads and discs on a track day without proper preparation is a recipe for disaster. The critical process you need to undertake is bedding in your new brakes. This procedure ensures that the friction material from the pads is evenly transferred onto the disc surface, creating a uniform mating surface. This not only optimises braking performance but also helps to prevent premature wear, glazing, and warping of the discs.

Why is Bedding-In Essential?

• Optimal Performance: Creates a consistent friction surface for maximum stopping power.
• Prevents Glazing: Avoids the hardening of the pad material, which reduces effectiveness.
• Reduces Wear: Ensures even contact, prolonging the life of both pads and discs.
• Minimises Warping: Helps to dissipate heat evenly, preventing disc distortion.

How to Bed In New Brakes

There are several methods for bedding in new brakes, but a common and effective approach is as follows:

1. Initial Light Application: Start with a series of moderate stops from around 30-40 mph down to 10 mph. Apply the brakes firmly but not excessively. Allow a brief cool-down period between each stop.
2. Moderate Stops: Progress to slightly harder stops from around 50-60 mph down to 15 mph. Again, ensure a brief cool-down period between applications.
3. Heavier Stops: Perform a few harder stops from around 70-80 mph down to 20 mph. This is where you start to generate more heat.
4. Cool Down Lap: Crucially, after these heavier stops, drive for a few minutes without heavy braking, allowing the brakes to cool gradually. Avoid coming to a complete stop with the brake pedal depressed while the brakes are very hot, as this can transfer pad material unevenly and cause issues.

Important Note: It is highly recommended to bed in your brakes on a quiet road or, ideally, at a dedicated track day preparation session before attending your main event. This allows you to perform the procedure without the pressure of a timed session.

Assessing Your Current Brake System

Before even considering new parts, a thorough inspection of your existing braking system is essential. Check the following:

Choosing the Right Brake Components for Track Use

Road car brake components are designed for a balance of performance, longevity, and comfort. Track driving demands components that can withstand much higher temperatures. Consider the following:

• Brake Pads: Opt for performance or track-specific brake pads. These are formulated with materials that offer higher friction at elevated temperatures but may be noisier and produce more dust on the road. Brands like Ferodo, EBC, and Brembo offer excellent track-day options.
• Brake Discs: While standard discs might suffice for a few track sessions, upgraded discs, such as drilled or grooved patterns, can help dissipate heat and gasses more effectively. However, for serious track use, high-carbon content discs are often preferred.
• Brake Fluid: Standard DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid has a lower boiling point than is ideal for track use. Upgrading to a high-performance DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid with a higher dry and wet boiling point is crucial to prevent fluid evaporation and brake fade.

Track Day Car Preparation Checklist (Brakes Focus)

Before heading out for your track day, ensure you have:

• New brake pads and discs properly bedded in.
• Brake fluid flushed and replaced with a high-temperature fluid.
• Checked for any leaks in the brake lines or around the calipers.
• Confirmed that the brake pedal feels firm and doesn't go to the floor under moderate pressure.
• Considered brake cooling ducts if your car is regularly used on track, as these direct airflow to the brakes.

Common Track Day Braking Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Not Bedding in New Brakes

Consequence: Poor performance, uneven wear, potential warping. Solution: Follow the bedding-in procedure meticulously before your track day.

Mistake 2: Overheating Brakes

Consequence: Brake fade, potential damage. Solution: Keep sessions to manageable lengths (e.g., 15-20 minutes), perform cool-down laps, and avoid continuous heavy braking.

Mistake 3: Using the Handbrake on Hot Discs

Consequence: Can cause discs to warp. Solution: Allow brakes to cool slightly before engaging the handbrake, or use a gear to hold the car.

Mistake 4: Neglecting Brake Fluid

Consequence: Reduced braking performance due to lower boiling point. Solution: Use high-performance brake fluid and have it changed regularly, especially before track use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use my standard road brake pads for a track day?

A1: While you can, it's not recommended for extended or aggressive track use. Standard pads are not designed for the high temperatures generated and can quickly overheat, leading to fade and reduced effectiveness. Performance pads are a much better choice.

Q2: How long does it take to bed in new brakes?

A2: The process typically involves 5-10 moderate to heavy stops, followed by a cool-down period. It's best to do this before your track day and not on the day itself if possible.

Q3: Will new brakes make a big difference on track?

A3: Absolutely. Properly bedded-in, high-performance brakes will significantly improve your confidence and ability to brake later and harder, leading to faster lap times and a safer experience.

Q4: Can I use different brake pads front and rear?

A4: Yes, it's common to use more aggressive pads on the front axle, as the majority of braking force is transferred to the front wheels. However, ensure compatibility and consult with a brake specialist if unsure.

Conclusion

In summary, while you can use new brakes on a track day, it is imperative that they are correctly prepared. The process of bedding in new pads and discs is non-negotiable for achieving optimal performance, ensuring longevity, and most importantly, maintaining safety. Invest the time in preparing your braking system, and you’ll be rewarded with a more confident, capable, and enjoyable track day experience. Remember, your brakes are your lifeline on the circuit – treat them with the respect they deserve.

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