When I get back from Iraq, I plan on doing a lot of upgrades on my '02 Lexus IS300. I've never had with anything other than standard rotors and pads but would like to switch to either cross-drilled or slotted rotors (both for performance and looks).
I would also upgrade my pads but don't plan on making any other major changes to my braking system.
I know that both kinds of rotors can be used without any other modification to the system. But what is the difference (if any) and does anyone recommend one over the other? Why? Thanks for any help. :)
2007-03-11 09:04:54 · 4 answers · asked by ? 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
In my experience, in spite of a great many hyped claims, the evidence for improved braking from slotted or drilled (or both) rotors is all but non-existant, especially on a street driven car. It is worth noting that very few race cars even bother with slotted or drilled rotors. These are, for all intents and purposes, appearance items. Unless you like the looks spend your money elsewhere.
2007-03-11 09:10:40 · answer #1 · answered by Naughtums 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would have to agree with Mark F. Slotted or drilled rotors will not net you any performance gain, and will actually make your pads wear faster. Think of a cheese grater. As far as the performance goes, think of it this way: If you remove some of the friction surface you have less area for the pads to grab, therefore reducing stopping power. The best bet for increasing your braking ability is to increase the friction area, either by increasing pad size (with increased size calipers), or increasing rotor size, or both. If you like the aesthetics of a drilled/slotted rotor more, then I say go for it since, after all is said and done, it is YOUR car and you can do whatever mods you like to it.
Personally I would stick with the stockers, or go bigger.
Good luck!
2007-03-11 09:25:16 · answer #2 · answered by Doug K 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
cross drilled rotors are the way to go. not only do they look cool but they keep your rotors cool by letting more airflow between the metal to give you optimal stopping performance. you should also upgrade your brake pads to ceramic. they hold less heat than conventional pads and have less dust that makes your shiny clean rims look like the city took a dump on your wheels.
2007-03-11 09:15:16 · answer #3 · answered by bgolds22 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I would suggest cross-drilled because they let a lot of air flow and cool off your rotors.
2007-03-11 09:09:16 · answer #4 · answered by linea843 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋