Setting Brake bias with guages

[Jeff Lee]

Bought two gauges and I set mine up with as MW suggested for my 4wdb's. I can't remember the percentages, been a long while. Back then I was 124-125 MPH, put it in neutral and shut the engine off so no compression braking. It got the job done but I sure like the 11" front & rear rotors on my 2400# SVT Focus better!

[Tom Goldman]

Todd, start with about 60/40 front bias.
I started Tex's Mustang there,and it works well, and is around the same weight as your Firebird.
Keep in mind front tire size and pressure will greatly effect the balance that works best.
I also use different hardness pad compounds front and rear.
Both Wilwood and Hawk have many compounds available that will fit almost anyones caliper.
I typically use Polymatrix B pads on the front and C or E pads on the rear on most cars.
The B pads stop well,but are less agressive on the initial hit ,so they dont lock up as easily.

Thanks Tom, good info.

Originally Posted by Tom Goldman

Todd, start with about 60/40 front bias.
I started Tex's Mustang there,and it works well, and is around the same weight as your Firebird.
Keep in mind front tire size and pressure will greatly effect the balance that works best.
I also use different hardness pad compounds front and rear.
Both Wilwood and Hawk have many compounds available that will fit almost anyones caliper.
I typically use Polymatrix B pads on the front and C or E pads on the rear on most cars.
The B pads stop well,but are less agressive on the initial hit ,so they dont lock up as easily.

[Jeff Lee]

Originally Posted by Tom Goldman

Todd, start with about 60/40 front bias.
I started Tex's Mustang there,and it works well, and is around the same weight as your Firebird.
Keep in mind front tire size and pressure will greatly effect the balance that works best.
I also use different hardness pad compounds front and rear.
Both Wilwood and Hawk have many compounds available that will fit almost anyones caliper.
I typically use Polymatrix B pads on the front and C or E pads on the rear on most cars.
The B pads stop well,but are less agressive on the initial hit ,so they dont lock up as easily.

What are the characteristics of the C or E pads?

Todd...you are talking 4 wdb's, right?

No, I should have added that. I'm running rear drums

Originally Posted by Jeff Lee

What are the characteristics of the C or E pads?

Todd...you are talking 4 wdb's, right?

[Tom Goldman]

Here is a link for Wilwoods comparison chart.
Speed and weight have to be taken into account ,but I've tried many of the compounds listed on my cars,before setteling on the ones I mentioned.

http://www.wilwood.com/BrakePads/BrakePadsApp.aspx

[Tom Goldman]

Todd, you have to bias heavier to the front with a disc /drum setup.
The problem with drums is getting enough holding power on the line vs. not locking up at the stripe.....since drum brakes self energize , they dont respond as quickley as discs do, both when applying and releasing.....especially releasing.