C2 C3 Brake Pads

[Michael H.]

I installed a set of front SS brake calipers several years ago that were purchased from a well known Corvette parts dealer in the Chicago area. The calipers worked, kinda, but the brake pads are so hard that it now takes both feet and a little help from a friend to stop the car. Does anyone have a recommendation for new pads that work? Thanks.

Yes, the 66 IS back on the street!

[John H.]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

Michael -

If your FLAPS doesn't carry organic pads (many only carry semi-metallic these days), Paragon has OEM-spec organic pads - about $26.00 for a full car set. My manual-brake '67 had semi-metallic pads on it when I bought it, and replacing them with organics reduced pedal pressure significantly.

[Michael H.]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

Thanks John. Bet that's exactly what's wrong. I didn't look at the pads at all on the new fronts so more than likely they are semi metallic, just as you suspect. Incredible difference in braking efficiency between the two different types of material. I can't even imagine how bad it would be with semi met on all four corners instead of just the front, especially without power brakes. I'll check out the local auto parts store.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

Michael-----

GM #18028641 also known as Delco #17D8 are the GM organic pad offerings.I also think that a Raybestos or Wagner equivalent set would be fine, too.

[Michael H.]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

Thanks Joe. The local Delco dealer said he would have these for me on Monday.

[mike cobine]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

The local Delco dealer? Man, are you made of money?

I used to buy the cheapest organic pads from the local parts store. They weren't good for track time more than about 2 laps, but regular street and most autocrosses, they were ready to grip instantly.

They always used to try to talk me out of them. I replaced them maybe twice, due to some track time on them. After that, I changed for the track, then back for the street.

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

mike------

These pads from Delco cost about $25-30 per axle set. You don't really need to be a multi-millionaire to buy them.

[Michael H.]

Re: C2 C3 Brake Pads

Mike,

I think you're right. I installed new SS calipers in 1983 with the pads that they were shipped with and never had any problems. They worked perfectly for almost ten years and I'm sure they were the cheap organic pads.

[Mark #28455]

been there, done that

I would only use semi-metallic pads with the power brakes. I tried them with the non-power setup (on all 4 wheels) and it was like there was oil on the pads. Added power to the car and it worked like magic - the factory C3 power brakes are a little too grabby in my opinion.

Mark