>From: John Rambo <fstbmwm3_at_yahoo.com>
>Date: Wed, 4 Feb 1998 04:29:10 -0800 (PST)
>Subject: E36 M3 Aftermarket Pad fitment and review

>I tried the Perfrmance Friction Compound 90 Race Pads and although i
>was infatuated by their perfomance (more later) I noticed that the
>pads lacked the clips that attach them to the caliper.
>
>The result is rattling noise from each pad every time I hit a bump.
>Its is very annoying and un-BMW-like.
>
>Is there a McGyver-ism I can do to fix (or reduce) the rattling ?
>
>The other problem w/ aftermarket pads is lack of wear sensor. That
>doesnt bother me though since I pay close attention to brakes and tire
>condition.

PF 90 's are a track pad, not a street pad. All track pads rattle and most squeal as well! At the track, who cares? They have loose tolerances so that when they get super hot the pads can expand into the holding brackets without seizing. If you really want to eliminate the rattle, you can put some brake goop (anti-squeal) on the back of the outboard pad (that's the one that usually rattles the most) - but this stuff is kinda goopy and may not like the high heat - dunno for sure. I don't use it on my track pads as any heat type sink is an issue.

One thing you should also be aware of is that PF90s are METALLIC pads, and will shed very hot metallic particles on your nice wheels (and can extend back to rocker panels on your car) when you are at the track. If it rains at all - your wheels will pit very, very quickly. That's why you rarely see a set of really pretty wheels on a race car. Racer tip: Spray PAM on your wheels at the track, then rinse them off ASAP when your day is done. Will save your wheel finish. Carbon Kevlar track pads do not have the particle problem, but don't last as long.

Wear Sensors are a crutch IMHO. When you grind the sensor, its junk and had to be replaced. Just an extra cost you don't need (mine are wrapped and tied off into the strut). You should check your pad wear after every session. As your pads wear down they run hotter and some pads will chunk, crack and some even delaminate from the backing plate when they get low. Always watch your pads - always keep a spare set at the track if your pads are at 50% or less.

Track pads are for the track.
Street pads are for the street.

Get two sets!!! Its kinda like having tennis shoes and dress shoes. Hard for one to do it all.

Duane Collie
RM3DR1 / UUC
NCC