after market rotors and pads

[thstone]

Street driving, no track - stock rotors and pads (or OEM equivalent).

Street driving and beginner track use - stock rotors and pads (or OEM equivalent) is fine and won't squeal like a pig at stop signs. Slight upgrade on the pad is EBC Redstuff - no squeal and no dust.

Street driving and moderate track - stock pads will be toast. Suggest Pagid Sports or EBC Yellowstuff (or equivalent) with any aftermarket rotor.

Street driving and heavy track - combo street/track pads will be toast. Pagid Yellow pads (or equivalent) or full racing pads depending on your skill level.

[Topless]

For a Street car I used OEM and Mintex pads. They held up well and were quiet, and low cost.

A dual purpose Street/track car will benefit from Pagid Orange or Hawk HP Plus (higher heat range, moderate price)

A serious track car needs serious high temp pads. There are no better than Raybestos ST-43. They can withstand temps up to 1200F and stop the car well even when stone cold. They only get better when warmed up. ST-43 are expensive, last nearly forever compared to other brands, and squeal like a school bus when cold, but they will never let you down at the track.

For rotors I am a fan of Zimmerman and slotted. Moderate price and good performance. Balo are cheaper at $50 but I had less consistent performance with them.

Almost as important as good brakes is a trusted brake specialty supplier. Having someone who answers the phone that knows a great deal about pads, rotors, and fluids, and can make a sound recommendation for your car based on experience. Someone who will custom-cut a set of pads to fit your car in the compound of your choice. Once ordered they arrive at your door in 2 days. That kind of service is quite rare and there is only one company like them. Give em a look:
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