Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Brakes Need opinons on Brakes!!

I have a 2000 Contour SE w/ 25K. Dealer tolde me I have 5K left on the pads.

Just looking to upgrade my brakes so they stop a better. What are my options?

1) Go with the BAT SVT Size upgrade w/ the brackets, rotors, and Mintex pads? = 300 Bux
Anyone done this with their contour? Worth it? Will it fit w/ my 15in rims?


2) Go with some better non-oem pads and have the rotors machined?

Also what pads do you recommend?

Thanks,
Al

Rotors can be turned if wear doesn't go below the "service limit" (usually stamped on the rotor). Any auto parts place can check this for you.

Rotor design seems to be of the "throw-away" type & are not expensive to replace if you stick w/ stock items. You can spend more if you choose to go w/ performance types; up to you...

Choice of brake pads has been discussed in past (& current) forums & seems to be up to the individual & how the vehicle is used....just my $00.02...

Get the Baer kit and be free of warped rotors forever

Baer doesn't fit in 15" rims I believe. Contour brakes are marginal in size for the weight and speed of the car. This was to allow fitment of 14" wheels. The bat kit or and SVT swap in is a great upgrade. Don't cheap out on the rotors as you'll just be replacing them again when they warp. Do it once and do it right.

Is the BAT kit the cougar caliper brackets, larger rotors and pads.

You could go down to the Ford store and buy the Cougar caliper brackets. Buy cougar rotors from whomever you wish as well as any variety pad you like that fits your Contour.

Do it yourself larger brakes.

TB

this would be a great time for you to make the upgrade to 17" wheels! Just kidding, yeah I know it's a lot on money once you add the wheels on but you might look in the classifieds for wheels. You can find some cheap.

just a thought

Raybestos will be getting my money for stock type rotors, at least here in Canada. The quality is top notch, and they have not warped on me yet. I have had nothing but trouble with Eurorotors.

The mintex a/f pads are a great buy if you are looking for a slight upgrade and a bit less dust. Cheap and fade resistant.

My 2 cents.

Anyone use the BAT Big Brake Kit A? I was considering this upgrade for this spring, any feedback?

I have been searching for people with the BAT big brake upgrade too..
Do we need to go to 16in tires? Or will the 15in fit?

Is it a worthwhile investment or should I just replace w/ better pads?

Many people using stock 15" wheels have done the SVT conversion. Evidently it works with all or nearly all stock 15" wheels. Be aware that your spare will not fit on the front wheel though. You will either need to get a spare from an SVT or Cougar or you will need to put the spare on the rear and move a rear tire to the front if you should have a front flat.