-------------- Original message from Frank Biedermann--------------
> Er, I'm not convinced that DOT5 is the problem at all. Why? I have the >
>problem using DOT4 fluid/fluif. I haven't done a lot of investigating as I'm
>used to compensating for it - the first time I have to stop/brake I just
> pump the pedal once and thereafter I don't have a problem (nice solid brake
>pedal with little travel). It seems to me to be a very odd problem, and I've
>been following the thread looking for a definitive solution with interest, but
>it doesn't bother me too much at all.
Probably more than most of you want to know, but here goes. The problem is flex
in the front end can result in the brake pads being knocked back into the
calipers during hard cornering, leading to a soft or no brake pedal on the
first push after the corner. Definitely not confidence inspiring. A lot of time
was spent on this topic in the TR vintage racing community, and here is what we
have discovered. It is important that the brake rotors not be thin, they must
be as close to new thickness as possible. The brake pads must be worn evenly.
Uneven brake pad wear can result in a high spot, which can knock the pads back
into the caliper more easily than evenly worn pads. This tip comes from no less
an expert than Mr. Kastner. The front wheel bearings must be in excellent
condition, and must be tightened as per spec. These steps alone can help solve
this situation. In addition, the front hubs can be reinforced to reduce
flexing, or if you can find a set, there have been some billet aluminum front
hubs that use oversize wheel bearings fabricated. These are terrific pieces.
And the final bit, billet front spindles have been made and are available.
These are stronger than the stock spindles, and are less likely to flex under
racing conditions. When you are heading towards a corner at 100+, working
brakes are very cool. For a street driven only car, you should see a noticable
improvement with the rotors, wheel bearings, and brake pad tips.
HTH,
Irv Korey
74 TR6 CF22767U
63 TR4 VSCDA Group 2 #58
Highland Park, IL
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