I have the Akebono BBK on my sedan and I decided to do a complete brake job on it so I can push the car a bit more at the track. I replaced the stock pieces with the following:

Stoptech streetpads
Centric rotors
Z-Concepts Stainless steel brake lines
ATE Blue brake fluid.

Although I can't really say overall stopping distance has increased, bite is definitely a lot softer, and it just FEELS like it's not as effective. What could be the issue?

I did bed the brakes per stoptech's instructions.

 

only thing i can think of is that you have air in the system still.

 

If you're comparing to OEM, it's likely that you're not used to it being grabby. Most OEM pads have a grabby feel but won't keep or ramp up friction throughout the braking range (i.e. not linear.)

The Stoptech's are very linear IMHO, press more and you get more. It won't give up ghost. You'll be surprised at just how hard the SS-SP pads can bite if you get to that point. Have to add though, these are not track pads. I run them at the track, but ours is very easy on the brakes. Most other tracks here in the U.S. are a bit harder on brakes due to elevation changes and hairpins.

 

I recently had my pads, lines, and and fluids changed also with stop tech street pads, CZP stainless steel lines and ATE racing fluid and I would say there is a great increase in braking. I just gently put my foot on the brake pedal and it bites like a ****. I would suggest that you check if there is any air in the brake Lines maybe that's why you are not getting the response you were looking for.

 

Rebleed the brakes...probably have air in the system...also make sure you do it correctly and in the correct sequence (starting with the furthest caliper from the brake master cylinder)

 

did you break (no pun intended) in the new pads?

 

Ok guys, found the problem, and I hope some of you guys learn from my mistake. I had a track event the other week, and my routine was to tighten the lugs before hitting the track. To my surprise 8 out of the 10 lugs were hand-spinnable. I torqued them up and took it for a test run, and my braking issues were resolved! I had forgotten to retighten the lugs after bedding my brakes and they must've heated up enough to expand and work themselves out. After they cooled down they contracted and were able to remained seated, but obviously not tight enough to be safe. This could've ended in disaster had I not re-checked the lugs on my track day.