Hey there! As a kit brake supplier, I often get asked whether kit brakes require more maintenance than regular brakes. It's a valid question, and today, I'm gonna break it down for you.
First off, let's understand what kit brakes and regular brakes are. Regular brakes are the ones that come standard with most vehicles. They're designed to meet the general braking needs of a wide range of drivers. On the other hand, kit brakes are often aftermarket options. They're typically designed for specific purposes, like high - performance driving, heavy - duty use, or custom applications. For example, if you're into racing or you have a commercial vehicle that needs to haul heavy loads, kit brakes might be a great choice. You can check out some of our top - notch kit brakes like the 60N DC Electromagnetic Spring Applied Brake, 30N DC Electromagnetic Spring Applied Brake, and 260N DC Electromagnetic Spring Applied Brake.
Now, let's talk about maintenance. One of the key factors in brake maintenance is the wear and tear of brake pads. Regular brakes usually come with brake pads that are made for average driving conditions. These pads are designed to last a certain number of miles, and as long as you drive within the normal range, you won't have to replace them too often.
Kit brakes, however, are a bit different. If you're using them for high - performance applications, the brake pads are likely to wear out faster. High - speed driving, frequent hard braking, and heavy loads put a lot more stress on the brake pads. So, in this case, you'll probably need to replace the brake pads more often than you would with regular brakes.
But it's not just about the brake pads. The brake rotors also play a crucial role. Regular brake rotors are made to handle normal braking forces. They have a certain thickness and surface finish that is optimized for average driving. Kit brake rotors, especially those for high - performance or heavy - duty use, are built to withstand more extreme conditions. They're often made of higher - quality materials and have a different design to dissipate heat more effectively.
However, this doesn't mean they're immune to wear. In fact, the increased stress on kit brakes can cause the rotors to warp or develop uneven wear patterns. Warped rotors can lead to a pulsating feeling when you step on the brake pedal, and uneven wear can reduce the braking efficiency. So, you may need to resurface or replace the rotors more frequently with kit brakes.
Another aspect of maintenance is the brake fluid. Brake fluid is essential for transferring the force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers. Regular brake systems require the fluid to be changed every few years to prevent moisture from building up, which can corrode the brake components.
Kit brakes, especially those used in high - performance scenarios, generate a lot more heat. This heat can cause the brake fluid to break down faster. When the brake fluid breaks down, its boiling point decreases, which can lead to a loss of braking power. So, you'll likely need to change the brake fluid more often with kit brakes.
Now, it's not all bad news. Kit brakes offer some advantages that might make the extra maintenance worth it. For one, they provide better braking performance. Whether you're a professional racer or just someone who wants a more responsive braking system for your daily drive, kit brakes can give you that edge. They can stop your vehicle faster, which is crucial in emergency situations.
Also, the materials used in kit brakes are often of higher quality. This means that even though they may require more maintenance, they're also more durable in the long run. A well - maintained kit brake system can last for a long time and provide consistent performance.
So, do kit brakes require more maintenance than regular brakes? The short answer is yes, in most cases. But it really depends on how you use them. If you're using kit brakes for normal, everyday driving, the maintenance difference might not be that significant. However, if you're pushing your vehicle to its limits, you'll definitely need to be more proactive with maintenance.
If you're considering switching to kit brakes, I'd recommend doing your research. Make sure you understand the maintenance requirements and are willing to invest the time and money into keeping them in top condition. And of course, if you have any questions or need more information about our kit brakes, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you make the right choice for your vehicle. Whether you're looking for a 60N DC Electromagnetic Spring Applied Brake, 30N DC Electromagnetic Spring Applied Brake, or 260N DC Electromagnetic Spring Applied Brake, we have the expertise to assist you. Contact us today to discuss your needs and start enjoying the benefits of high - quality kit brakes.
References
- "Automotive Brake Systems: Fundamentals, Diagnosis, and Service" by William C. Hurd
- "High - Performance Brake Systems" by Tony Candela
