I've read some info already after doing a search, but for less fade and pad chunks all over my wheels, what do I need to do? I will probably do maybe 3-5 track related events a year(so far), so I just need some better brakes than the stock setup! I saw a $900 BBK at DETROIT TUNED that looks nice, but if proper pads(Ferroda's) and some better fluid is all I need that would obviously be cheaper.

Any opinions and knowledge would be greatly appreciated...also what about stainless steel brakelines? Thanks...Peace!

 

Updating the pads, lines, and fluid will certainly help you maximize the performance of the stock system.

For added brake torque you can go with a BBK. These kits include larger rotors and fixed calipers (except for UUC's kit). The larger rotors and often larger pad surfaces can help reduce stopping distances. The most benefit you will see from a BBK is the added fade resistance.

Do you have wheels that will clear a larger caliper/rotor setup?

See what costs are involved in updating the lines, pads, and fluid. It adds up and you will come close to the $900 Detroit Tuned/Outlaw setup. You can't go wrong either way

 

Ya..I need to do the math, I was just wondering if there was a huge difference in the two setups, and taking that difference into consideration, and cost, which one to get?

 

Not to dismiss the merits of the BBK, there are a number of very good low cost brake upgrades. I used to want a BBK but I now rethink that approach. It depends on what is your expectation and budget.

The biggest bang for the buck in my book are:

1) the right brake pads for the job.
2) good brake fluid.
3) the caliper bushing kit to improve brake feel and caliper twist.
4) SS brake lines
5) figure out how to promote moving air through the discs to reduce heat build up.

I read that the MINI brake lines are not bad at all and that the difference of going to SS lines are not that perceptable. However I don't have direct experience.

 

You have a flood of options, but they boil down to two basic approaches:


1) Enhanced Stock - This option ranges from simply changing the pads to upgraded rotors, fluid and SS lines.
2) BBK - This option includes JCW brakes as well as a variety of aftermarket offerings.

What you have to think about is how much you're willing to spend and how you're going to use the car. Think also about why you want to replace/modify the brakes. For example, if you're going to do 3-5 weekends/year at the track and just want better braking with less fade, you can probably accomplish this with dedicated track pads, SS Lines and a good racing fluid. Upgraded rotors might also be helpful, but I wouldn't say they're necessary. When you get to the track, change to the track pads. When you leave, change back to a nice, low-dust street pad. It's simple and affordable.

However, if you want more, the next step might be something like this: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=40783 If you can get in at the Group Buy price, it's a real deal.

If you want even more the B3 kit, sold a NAM Store & Detriot Tuned looks fantastic for the price. However, it addresses only the front wheels, as do most of the BBK's I've seen for the MINI. IMO that's a comprimise as well.

It's up to you, but as we've discussed on other threads, a well-driven car with few or no mods is often quicker that a heavily-modded car driven by an inexperienced or unskilled driver. For what you're doing now, I'd keep the brake mods simple and spend the extra $$$ on improving the driver. :smile: