How to Fit a Big Brake Kit on a Ford Fiesta ST for Improved Stopping Power?
For all automobile enthusiasts, modifying and upgrading your vehicle can not only increase its performance but also its safety and durability. One critical area where upgrades can significantly improve your car’s performance is the braking system. Whether you’re into racing or simply want your Ford Fiesta ST to stop faster and more efficiently, fitting it with a big brake kit can do wonders. This comprehensive guide will take you through the process of fitting a big brake kit on your Fiesta for improved stopping power.
Choosing the Right Brake Kit
Before you start the actual installation, the first step is to choose the right big brake kit for your Ford Fiesta ST. The best one for you will depend on your specific needs as well as your budget. When looking for a brake kit, you need to consider a few crucial elements.
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Firstly, the kit should include larger rotors as they provide a larger surface area for the brake pads to grab onto, thereby enhancing your car’s stopping power. Brands like EBC and Wilwood are known for their large, high-performance rotors.
Secondly, the kit should come with performance pads. These pads are made from a special compound that offers better friction and heat resistance than standard pads, letting your brakes function at their best even under intense conditions.
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Lastly, the brake calipers are equally important. Look for calipers that are made from lightweight materials to reduce the unsprung weight. A high-performance brake kit should include large, multi-piston calipers that are able to apply more pressure to the brake pads, thereby increasing the braking force.
Preparing Your Ford Fiesta ST
Before beginning the installation process, ensure that your Ford Fiesta ST is properly prepared. This entails raising the car off the ground using a reliable set of jack stands or a hydraulic lift. This will give you ample space to maneuver and work on the brakes comfortably.
Remove the wheels to expose the brake components. You will then need to remove the existing brake setup, including the rotors, calipers, and pads. Make sure to disconnect the brake lines carefully to avoid damaging them.
Remember, safety is paramount. Always wear protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself from brake dust and any debris.
Installing the Big Brake Kit
Now that you’ve chosen your high-performance brake kit and prepared your car, it’s time to proceed to the actual installation. Begin by installing the new rotors. These should fit onto the hub without any issues, but ensure they’re securely fastened.
Next, the calipers. These should be mounted onto the braking system using the bolts provided in the kit. Make sure they are lined up correctly with the mounting holes on the hub. Once the calipers are installed, it’s time to fit the performance brake pads. These should slide into the calipers easily.
After you’ve installed the rotors, calipers, and pads, the last step is to reconnect the brake lines. You might need to bleed the brakes to ensure there is no air in the brake lines. This will ensure your brakes respond efficiently when pressure is applied.
Ensuring Optimal Performance
After fitting the big brake kit to your Ford Fiesta ST, it is essential to ensure it is working optimally. The best way to do this is by taking your car for a test drive in a safe, controlled environment. Listen for any unusual sounds and observe how your car now stops.
Remember that new brake components may need a "bedding-in" period. During this time, the brake pads and rotors wear against each other, improving the surface-to-surface contact and increasing braking efficiency. Brands like EBC include specific bedding-in instructions with their brake kits.
Taking It to the Racing Track
If you’re a racing enthusiast, a big brake kit can significantly improve your vehicle’s performance on the track. With larger rotors and performance pads, your Fiesta will have improved stopping power, allowing you to take turns at higher speeds and brake later when approaching a corner.
When racing, ensure your brakes are in top condition. Regularly check the brake pads for wear and replace them when necessary. Also, monitor the condition of the rotors and calipers.
Installing a big brake kit on your Ford Fiesta ST is a rewarding project that can significantly improve your car’s stopping power and overall performance. Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or simply want to upgrade your vehicle for daily use, a big brake kit is a valuable addition to your Fiesta. Remember, always prioritize safety, both during installation and when testing the new braking system. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of the upgraded brakes without any worries.
Breaking-In Your New Brake Kit
With your new big brake kit installed on your Ford Fiesta ST, it is critical to understand the process of breaking-in your new brakes, often called "bedding-in". What does this process entail? Simply put, the bedding-in process permits the brake pads and rotors to wear against each other, establishing an even layer of brake pad deposit on the rotor surface. This process improves the surface-to-surface contact, eventually enhancing your car’s stopping power.
Start by driving your Fiesta, accelerating, then applying mild brake pressure several times. Afterward, increase your speed, then apply firm brake pressure. This should be repeated several times. It’s essential to avoid bringing your car to a complete stop while the brakes are heated to prevent the brake pad material from leaving uneven deposits on the rotor surface. Finally, drive the car at normal speeds to allow the brakes to cool down.
With brands like EBC brakes, this bedding-in process is often outlined in the brake kit’s instructions, keeping you well informed on how to optimize your brake’s performance. Remember that the bedding-in process may create unusual smells or even smoke. This is normal and is part of the initial wearing in of the performance pads and rotors.
When conducting this process, it’s important to ensure it’s done in a controlled, safe environment, away from heavy traffic and pedestrians. Safety should always be a top priority.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Upgraded Braking Power
Finally, after successfully fitting your Ford Fiesta ST with a big brake kit, preparing it properly, installing the kit, and having completed the crucial bedding-in process, you’re now ready to enjoy your upgraded stopping power.
Whether you’re a racing enthusiast heading to the track with your EBC Racing Apollo Big Brake Kit, or on your daily commute, you’ll experience the improved safety, control, and efficiency your new brakes offer. Always remember that regular maintenance of your brake system is crucial. Regularly check your brake pads for wear, monitor the condition of the rotors and calipers, and replace the brake fluid when necessary.
Investing in a big brake kit for your Ford Fiesta ST is an investment in not only your vehicle’s performance but also your safety. Always prioritize safety, especially during the installation and the bedding-in process. With a keen focus on safety and proper maintenance, you’ll enjoy the enhanced performance of your new brakes for years to come.
Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. In this case, with greater stopping power comes the responsibility of proper care, maintenance, and safety. Enjoy your upgraded Ford Fiesta ST and the benefits your new big brake kit provides!