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Brembo Unveils All-New Track Day and Club Racing Calipers

Brembo, the world leader and acknowledged innovator of brake technology introduced all-new M6 and M4 brake calipers at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show (Booth #23561), held at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Brembo New M6 Caliper

 

 

BREMBO M4

Brembo M4 Caliper        

The race inspired Brembo M6 and M4 calipers are perfect for the club racer or weekend track day enthusiast that wants to take that next step in braking. The M6 is a six-piston aluminum front caliper with performance properties gleaned from the company’s endurance caliper that helped the Ford GT win the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The pistons include racing style radiators and dual inner piston seals, with an inner pressure seal and an outer wiper seal. This innovative design provides the best combination of performance and long-lasting track use. The calipers are hard anodized for longevity and resistance to corrosion at high temperatures. The Brembo logo is racing style, engraved in red, as seen on all of the company’s competition products.

 

“The popularity of track day driving for performance vehicle owners has grown over the past five years,” said Dan Sandberg, Brembo North America President and CEO. “As enthusiasts get more comfortable on the track with the agility of today’s high-performance cars, they will want more speed, faster cornering and of course, better braking ability. The M6 and M4 provide that next level of performance braking while still being very compliant on the street.”

 

Brembo M6 Caliper

Brembo M6 Caliper

The new six-piston M6 calipers and four-piston M4 are derived from the current Brembo Gran Turismo (GT) performance caliper family. This makes the new components fully interchangeable with the GT kits, allowing them to fit under the same size wheels and accommodate the same size rotors while providing increased performance. In fact, the M6 and M4 calipers can be referenced through the same application list as the GT brake systems.

The M6 is a front caliper designed for a disc that measures from 350 to 405mm, with a thickness of 32 to 34mm. The M4 is used for the rear axle as well as for some front applications and wraps around disc sizes from 328 to 380mm. The M6 and M4 share the same Brembo design characteristics that have been proven at the top rungs of motorsport for over 40 years.

Brembo offers a comprehensive range of products dedicated exclusively to motorsports and designed to deliver the best results when used in the most extreme conditions: consistent performance, superior braking power, precision and control, and resistance to very high temperatures. All Brembo racing application products are the result of ongoing research and development in collaboration with the world’s most prestigious teams. All of these products are designed and manufactured in-house and track tested.

The Brembo M6 and M4 will be available for purchase in 2017 from Race Technologies (www.racetechnologies.com), Brembo’s exclusive North American import distributor.

Brembo Performance
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BREMBO GT|TY3 2-PIECE DISC UPGRADE FOR THE PORSCHE CAYMAN GT4 (981)

BREMBO GT|TY3 2-PIECE DISC UPGRADE FOR THE PORSCHE CAYMAN GT4 (981):

GMG Racing Porsche 981 Cayman GT4

GMG Racing Porsche 981 Cayman GT4. Photo: GMG Racing

OFF THE SHOWROOM FLOOR AND STRAIGHT TO THE TRACK: The brand new Cayman GT4 (981) is Porsche’s lightweight platform specifically focused for the racetrack and track day enthusiasts.

THE PORSCHE 911 (991) DNA: Since most of the front end, upright, and suspension components on the Porsche Cayman GT4 are from the Porsche 991 GT3 (911), the Brembo OE (Original Equipment) brakes equipped on the Porsche Cayman GT4 are some of the most sophisticated designed for an OE application.

The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 shares all the same front suspension and chassis components as a 991 GT3. Photo: GMG Racing

The Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 shares the same front end components as a 991 GT3. Photo: GMG Racing

GMG Racing 981 Cayman GT4 Front end

GMG Racing 981 Cayman GT4 Front end, upright and brake system.

CAYMAN GT4 VS. 911 GT3: The Porsche Cayman GT4 Brembo OE brakes utilize 6-piston aluminum fixed monobloc calipers front and 4-piston aluminum fixed monobloc calipers in the rear. The Cayman GT4 uses heavy duty 380 x 34 mm ventilated front & 380 x 30 mm rear brake discs similar to what is equipped on a Porsche 991 GT3. The Porsche Cayman GT4 brakes also uses a wide annulus (radial depth) front and rear pad for maximum swept area, heat dissipation, and pad life. The OE pads are also 18 mm thick front and rear which is comparable to most high performance aftermarket calipers.

Brembo OE brake system equipped on the Cayman GT4

Brembo OE brake system equipped on the Porsche Cayman GT4

HOW THEY DIFFER FROM EACH OTHER: While the Porsche Cayman GT4 and 991 GT3 are similar on paper in many ways, there are some of major technical differences between the Porsche 991 GT3 and Cayman 981 GT4.

Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 vs Porsche 991 GT3. Photo: GMG Racing

Porsche 981 Cayman GT4 vs Porsche 991 GT3. Photo: GMG Racing

These technical differences significantly affect overall brake balance setup and performance.

  • The Porsche Cayman’s suspension setup (especially the rear), geometry, and dynamic weight distribution is fundamentally different resulting in an overall chassis balance that is more sensitive to braking inputs than a GT3.
Cayman GT4 suspension geometry.

The Porsche Cayman GT4’s suspension geometry.

The Cayman GT4 is more sensitive to driver inputs, especially pitch under braking. Photo: GMG Racing

The Cayman GT4 is more sensitive to driver inputs, especially pitch under braking. Photo: GMG Racing

The Cayman’s inherent tendency to pitch more under braking increases front axle brake demand, but inherently results in unsettling the rear axle under braking. However, this can be tuned with managing the operating temperature of the brake disc and also by using different friction compounds that are optimized for the specific brake temperature windows.

Brembo Performance Type 5 endurance discs used to maximize disc life on the track.

Brembo Performance TY5 endurance discs used to maximize disc life on the track.

Cayman GT4 Rear pad options help tune braking characteristics

Porsche Cayman GT4 Rear pad compound options help the driver tune braking characteristics

BREMBO DISC OPTIONS: The front Brembo 380 x 34 / 72 Vane racing disc used for the GT4 application are available in multiple configurations (standard or heavy duty and TY3 Sprint or TY5 Endurance) to help the user setup the brakes to suit their demands.

Brembo 380 x 34 Type 5 Endurance "heavy duty" front discs

Brembo 380 x 34 TY5 Endurance “heavy duty” front discs

  • The Porsche’s Cayman GT4 is a true mid-engine platform with the engine sitting in front of the rear axle closer to the center of the chassis unlike the 991 GT3 which is a rear-engine platform with the engine sitting over the rear axle.
The Porsche Cayman GT4 is a mid-engine platform with the engine closer to the center of the chassis. Photo: GMG Racing

The Porsche Cayman GT4 is a mid-engine platform with the engine closer to the center of the chassis. Photo: GMG Racing

MID-ENGINE VS. REAR-ENGINE: A mid-engine platform will generally demand less out of the rear brakes compared to a rear-engine platform with all the weight sitting on the rear axle. The Cayman’s mid-engine design also inherently results in the rear axle getting unsettled easier under braking inputs.

Cayman GT4 rear can get unsettled under braking. Photo: GMG Racing

Porsche Cayman GT4 rear end can get unsettled under braking. Photo: GMG Racing

STABLE DISC TEMPERATURES: The rear Brembo 380 x 30 TY3 racing disc, used for the GT4 application is offered in a 48 vane configuration. This 48 vane disc configuration stores more heat in the disc, which allows for more stable rear brake temperatures, resulting in improved disc life for the intended use.

Brembo 380 x 30 48 Vane Type 3 racing disc

Rear Brembo Performance 380 x 30 48 Vane TY3 racing disc

  • The Porsche Cayman GT4 generally weighs 200 lbs less than a 991 GT3 (Cayman GT4 Curb Weight – 2955 lbs, 991 GT3 Curb Weight – 3150 lbs).

Overall weight and weight balance directly influence a vehicle’s brake demand. The Cayman GT4 with less overall weight (especially over the rear axle) will also demand significantly less out of the rear brakes compared to a 991 GT3.

  • The Porsche Cayman GT4’s bumper design and aerodynamics are different and more adjustable than a 991 GT3. The Cayman GT4 features an adjustable front diffuser and rear wing to increase downforce and grip versus the non-adjustable parts on the 991 GT3.
Cayman GT4 Rear wing and diffuser

The Porsche Cayman GT4 has an adjustable Rear wing to add rear downforce.

Bumper design has a significant influence on airflow to the brake system which results in different braking demands on the front and rear axles. Increased downforce and grip also affects brake balance and demand depending on the exact chassis setup.

Porsche Cayman GT4 front bumper with adjustable flaps integrated in the bumper

Porsche Cayman GT4 front bumper with adjustable flaps integrated in the bumper to increase brake cooling and downforce. Photo: GMG Racing

IN CONCLUSION: There are certain limitations with the OE components on any high performance application as they are designed specifically for the car manufacturers to their requirements of comfort, wear rates in various road environments, cost and serviceability.

As the braking system’s primary function is to dissipate heat, Brembo uses purpose-designed discs in order to increase the fade resistance and thermal capacity of the system. These discs are directionally ventilated for enhanced cooling and slotted for better performance and continuously refreshing the pad surface. Brembo Performance 2-piece discs are made up of a proprietary advanced cast-iron alloy which offers an exceptional coefficient of friction and resistance to thermal shock and fatigue.

Cayman GT4 OEM disc versus Brembo Type 3 disc assembly

Porsche Cayman GT4 Brembo OEM disc versus Brembo Performance TY3 disc assembly

The same Brembo Racing discs trusted every weekend in professional motorsports are also utilized in the Brembo Performance Program (GT, GT-R & Race Systems).

GMG Racing team using Brembo Type V endurance discs. Photo: GMG Racing

GMG Racing team using Brembo TY5 endurance discs at Thermal Raceway. Photo: GMG Racing

Brembo Type V 2-piece disc assemblies with rotor temperature paint

Brembo Performance TY5 2-piece disc assemblies with rotor temperature paint for track use

GMG's Cayman GT4 Brembo OE brakes being swapped out for Brembo Performance 2-piece disc upgrades.

GMG’s Cayman GT4 Brembo OE brakes being swapped out for Brembo Performance 2-piece disc and Race Technologies pad upgrades


BENEFITS OF BREMBO 2-PIECE DISC UPGRADES:

  • OEM INTEGRATION: Brembo 2-piece disc upgrades are designed to work seamlessly with the OE calipers and systems (manufactured by Brembo for Porsche). This guarantees the utmost in safety and seamless fitment.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: Disc assemblies include an outer iron disc with aluminum bell/hat and provide decreased corner weights to improve vehicle dynamics including handling, acceleration, and braking.
  • TYPE III SLOT PATTERN: Extensively used in professional motorsports, the Type III slot pattern offers a high initial response with excellent release characteristics.
  • HIGH THERMAL CAPACITY: Greatly improved thermal capacity and heat management over OE discs and other aftermarket discs in the market. This also improves braking performance and allows for greater longevity of the components.
  • FRICTION MATERIALS: Everything we learn by supporting top professional racing teams throughout the world goes into selecting the best brake pad options for all levels of street, track and racing use.

PACKAGES INCLUDE:

  1. Outer Brembo TY3 discs (qty 2)
  2. 6061 T6 aluminum (machined from billet), hard anodized bell/hat
  3. Complete Brembo disc hardware (D-type bobbin) w/ anti-rattle springs. (Full Floating Option Available Upon Request).

BREMBO CAYMAN GT4 (981) 2-PIECE DISC OPTIONS:

FRONT BREMBO 2-PIECE DISC OPTIONS: 981 CAYMAN GT4 OE IRON EQUIPPED

MSRP COMPLETE AXLE SET: $1,895.00

981 Cayman GT4 Front disc specifications:

–          380 x 34 disc – Standard
–          TY3 slot type
–          20 mm air-gap (wide air-gap for overall brake disc weight reduction)
–          72 vane ventilation
–          21 lbs – disc ring
–          23 lbs – complete 2-piece disc assembly

981 Cayman GT4 Front “High Thermal” disc specifications:

–          380 x 34 disc – High Thermal
–          TY3 or TY5 “Endurance” slot type available.
–          17 mm air-gap (narrow air-gap for the brake disc to have extra thermal capacity and durability under higher brake demand conditions)
–          72 vane ventilation
–          23 lbs – disc ring
–          24.5 lbs – complete 2-piece disc assembly
–          Compatible with 911 Turbo (991) Models

REAR BREMBO 2-PIECE DISC OPTIONS: 981 CAYMAN GT4 OE IRON EQUIPPED

MSRP COMPLETE AXLE SET: $1,895.00

981 Cayman GT4 Rear “High Thermal” disc specifications:

–          380 x 30 disc – High Thermal
–          TY3 slot type
–          16 mm air-gap
–          48 vane ventilation
–          20 lbs – disc ring.
–          22 lbs – complete 2-piece disc assembly
–          Compatible with factory braking brake (e-brake)

PORSCHE CAYMAN GT4 (981) OEM DISC WEIGHTS – FOR REFERENCE:

– Front, 380 x 34: Approximately 24 lbs
– Rear, 380 x 30: Approximately 22.5 lbs

Brembo (General News) Brembo Performance Brembo Racing
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Jon Sibal / RWB Porsche 964 Equipped with a Brembo Club Race System

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Pictured at SEMA 2015

Interview with Jon Sibal

  1. It seems as though I’ve seen you everywhere, but I am still not too familiar with your background. If you can, can you let us know a little about yourself?

    I’m just an average guy who finds art as a great way to express myself. I’m an Automotive Artist where I design body kits, liveries, concept and speculative renderings, etc. I’m also a Comic Book artist where I’m an inker for various titles from Image, Marvel, and DC Comics. I’ve always loved cars and been in the local So. Cal import scene since the early 90’s.

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    C7.R concepts by Jon Sibal

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    Rendering for Super Street by Jon Sibal of a Mazda MX-5.

  2. So can you tell us about your RWB 964 build?

    I’ve dreamed of owning an RWB ever since it caught my attention way back in the days before they blew up here in the US. While walking at our local Cars&Coffee with RJ de Vera, I told him about a matte black Porsche 964 I saw at SEMA that I thought could be a good donor car for an RWB project. He introduced me to the owner and it turned out that the car went straight to a body shop to have the fender flares redone. We made a deal and a few days later, took delivery of the car. Seeing the car in person for the first time felt like a huge financial mistake because the car needed way more work than I had expected. It sat in my driveway for over a year until I was able to save up enough money to get it prepared and to also afford the RWB conversion. After figuring out a realistic schedule, we thought that it may be a good idea to debut the car in the 2015 SEMA show. Parts started coming which was a directly reflected by my bank account which was quickly being drained. By the time the SEMA doors opened, our project was on display at the H&R booth.

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    Before and after build shot by Jon Sibal

  3. How do you go about rendering your concepts, and are you at all critical of which components you put on the vehicle (form or function?).

    I have some great ideas of what I want the car to be, but when reality hits, some of those ideas gets shut down. So right now, I’m taking it step by step so I can make better decisions on a realistic direction for the car. One thing I know for sure is that I want this car to have the best parts that I can afford which is why we chose Brembo to handle the braking system for it. Along with the Brembo Club Race system, some of the other parts we’ve chosen might be overkill for the car’s current set up, but they’re carefully chosen in preparation and consideration of our future plans for it.IMG_9572_2048px

  4. I was a huge comic book collector, specifically from the 80’s to the late 90’s, so I can really identify with this part of your career. So can you let us know a little more about your time at Image (Awesome?) Comics.

    My first published comic book work was back in 1993 when Image Comics was still in its infancy. I was fortunate enough to be given a chance to learn the craft as I never had any prior experience. I just loved to draw and was hungry to learn. My first published work was under Rob Liefeld’s Extreme Studio as an inker for a monthly book titled “BloodStrike”. Then later on, I got to work with other studios like Marc Silverstri’s Top Cow Studio and Jim Lee’s Homage Studio. It was fun inking titles like Gen 13, Fathom, Tomb Raider etc.Since then, I worked for Marvel and DC Comics and got to work with some great artist and writers on books like X-Men, Avengers, Spiderman, Iron Man, Superman and currently working on a  Batman Earth One Graphic Novel with writer Geoff Johns and penciller Gary Frank.

    A Witchblade piece Jon Sibal inked over with Marc Silvestri back in the days
    Fathom double page spread cover for Top Cow. Job Sibal’s inks over the unforgettable Michael Turner.
    One of Jon’s favorite pieces Jon worked on for DC Comics – Superman: Secret Origin. This is page 24 from issue#3. Pencils by Gary Frank, Inks by yours truly and colors by Brad Anderson.
  5. I know you for your Dodge Challenger which is not only one of my favorite Challengers but also a couple others at RT. That brings me to ask: What other cars have you owned, or would you like to own?
    I’ve owned a Dodge Challenger, a BMW M roadster, and my E36 which were all fun projects to drive and work on. Although all the hard work and sacrifice that went the RWB 964 will probably satisfy my wants and needs for a long while”.

    e36

    Jon’s BMW (E36)

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    Jon Sibal’s Dodge Challnger

  6. Is there anything you would like to add?

    By God’s amazing grace, the journey to get to reach the goal makes it fun when you have the help and support from family and friends through all the craziness. We’re very fortunate to have the support we received from companies like Race Technologies and Brembo to help make the dream a reality. Special Thanks also goes to H&R Springs, RSTRADA, WORK Wheels, PIRELLI, RJ De Vera, RWB Family, and Team CP.

    Thank you very much Jon for taking the time to do this.

    Jon Sibal
    Automotive Artist and Consultant
    1992 RWB Porsche 911 (964)
    http://www.jonsibal.com
    IG: jonsibal

Image Gallery

Brembo Club Race Brake System

The Brembo Club Race (XB1E7) brake system offers several racing caliper features such as a hard anodized finish for protection in high heat environments, stainless steel piston inserts for improved heat rejection, 20 mm thick brake pads for extended pad life over the OE (typically a 16.5 mm thick pad), and a swing bridge for easy brake pad changes.

The lightweight 2-piece Brembo disc assembly is a 332 x 32 x 54a, slotted type 1 disc is a substantial upgrade over the heavy inadequate 25+ year old Porsche OE system.

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The Brembo Club Race (XB1E7) brake system for early to late model Porsche applications. Pictured system goes for $3,895

Specifications


BASE VEHICLE

  • 1992 RWB Porsche 911 Carrera 2 (964)
  • Air cooled flat-6, 3.6 L
  • 5-speed manual transmission

ENGINE:

  • Air cooled flat 6, 3.6 L
  • 5-speed manual transmission
  • Porsche 997.2-GT3 center exit muffler
  • Porsche 997 GT3 muffler support
  • Porsche 997 GT3 RS titanium dual tips
  • Porsche 1.75″ stainless steel headers
  • RothSport 3″ J-pipes
  • RothSport GT3 muffler port block off
  • RothSport GT3 muffler tip plate

CHASSIS/BRAKES:

  • H&R custom front coil-over suspension system
  • H&R custom rear coil-over suspension system
  • H&R front 24mm sway bar
  • H&R rear 26mm sway bar
  • H&R Trak+ 7mm front wheel spacer
  • TARETT front drop links
  • TARETT rear drop links
  • Elephant Racing quick change strut brace system
  • BREMBO Club Race System
    • Front, drilled, hard anodized finish and 2-piece 332×2 mm discs.
  • RT 20 mm TS20 brake pads

WHEELS/TIRES:

  • WORK Meister S1 3-pc wheels
    • Front, 18×10.
    • Rear, 18×13
  • PIRELLI PZero Rosso Asymmetric 265/35/18
  • PIRELLI PZero Ross Asymmetric 315/30/18

EXTERIOR:

INTERIOR:

  • 3-spoke leather steering wheel
  • Brushed aluminum sill plates
  • Aluminum gauge bezels
Brembo Performance Brembo Racing Uncategorized
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All-New Brembo UPGRADE GT|BM8 and GT|BM4 Brake Calipers

A New Family of Calipers

Brembo launches innovative high performance aftermarket truck and SUV calipers

LAS VEGAS, Nev., Nov. 3, 2015 – Brembo, the world leader and acknowledged innovator of brake technology introduces a brand new product during the 2015 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show (Booth #23561) on November 3-5, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Brembo launches the GT|BM8, the all-new 8-piston caliper and its companion the GT|BM4.

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The Brembo GT|BM8 is an 8-piston monobloc caliper with four pads, suitable for rotors up to 420mm x 40mm (16.53” x 1.57”). This all-new caliper is specifically made for the front braking systems of trucks, SUVs and large high-performance sedans. As one of the largest calipers manufactured by Brembo, at 15.8 inches x 5.51 inches x 7.1 inches, the B-M8 required more than one thousand design hours, which included on-vehicle testing and casting technology development. The GT|BM8 is validated for torques up to 5700Nm (4204 lb ft).

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The GT|BM8 is available in four colors – red, yellow, black and new to the market white, with a few “optional” colors. The companion caliper, the GT|BM4, for rotors up to 380mm x 30 mm, is 12.2” x 6,42” x 3.54” and suitable for the rear braking systems of larger vehicles as well as front applications for smaller cars. The GT|BM8 and GT|BM4 are ideal for a variety of domestic and import trucks, SUVs, and sedans including, but not limited to Ford F-Series and Expedition, Dodge Ram, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Frontier, Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes-Benz SUVs and Porsche Cayenne.

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Available in red, yellow, black and new to the market white, with a few “optional” colors

This new caliper aligns with Brembo’s principles of developing new and innovative products with a designed flair. The B-M8 will not only provide superior stopping performance, but will also deliver a design aesthetic that fills the large wheel openings of today’s 22-inch truck and car wheels.  The company have taken its expertise in the motorsports world and applied it to large truck and SUV braking systems to create one of the largest and best looking calipers in the Brembo line.

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The new color added to the available finishes

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Brembo GT|BM8 and GT|BM4

“We are breaking new ground with the launch of the Brembo BM-8 and BM-4 calipers at SEMA,” said Dan Sandberg, President and CEO of Brembo North America. “This new caliper aligns with Brembo’s principles of developing new and innovative products with a designed flair. The B-M8 will not only provide superior stopping performance, but will also deliver a design aesthetic that fills the large wheel openings of today’s 22-inch truck and car wheels. Our business was founded on creating high performing products that look great. We’ve taken our expertise in the motorsports world and
applied it to large truck and SUV braking systems to create one of the largest and best looking calipers in the Brembo line.”

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The New Brembo GT|BM4

Developed to increase overall braking performance, the GT|BM8 exhibits consistent braking power under intensive conditions. The GT|BM8’s four pads provide a significantly larger braking surface, improving performance and pad wear, while communicating increased “bite” to the driver. Manufactured in the same plant as the company’s racing brake systems, the GT|BM8 leverages Brembo’s 40 years in motorsports in an advanced road-going high performance caliper.

GT|BM8 and GT|BM4 with their innovative and exclusive design are the first members of a NEW FAMILY of calipers that will distinguish the new High Performance Brembo Kits from others in the market, moving the car where it will be fitted to a new and clear identity.

The Brembo GTBM8 and GT|BM4 will be available for purchase in 2016 from Race Technologies.

About Brembo SpA
Brembo SpA is the world leader and acknowledged innovator of disc brake technology for automotive vehicles. Brembo supplies high performance brake systems for the most important manufacturers of cars, commercial vehicles and motorbikes worldwide, as well as clutches and other components for racing. Brembo is also a leader in the racing sector and has won more than 300 championships. Today the company operates in 16 countries on 3 continents, with 24 production and business sites, and a pool of around 7.700 employees, about 10% of whom are engineers and product specialists active in the R&D. 2014 turnover is € 1,803.3 million (12/31/2014). Brembo is the owner of the Brembo, Breco, AP, Bybre and Marchesini, and operates through the AP Racing brand. For more information, visit us at http://www.brembo.com.
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To access the 2015 Brembo SEMA media kit, visit www.mediakit.brembo.com.

Brembo Performance
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How it all started. The start of the Brembo Performance program

In the mid 1990’s, company founder, Jaime Trimble was deeply involved in the Porsche community; buying, selling, and building Porsche 911’s and 930’s.

His passion led him to start a business offering a line of performance upgrades for Porsche. As part of the company’s product line, he began producing “Big Brake Kits” by retrofitting Porsche OE Brembo calipers and discs to early model Porsches. These early brake kits proved to be very successful in the market due to the way they were designed and packaged for ease of installation. However, Jaime recognized that retrofitting OE components from one vehicle to another had its disadvantages and limitations so he began looking for better solutions.

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The working partnership between Race Technologies and Brembo resulted in the “Big Brake System” which was engineered by Brembo to be application specific.

In 1998, Jaime met with Brembo North America to discuss how they could cooperate on developing a new line of aftermarket performance brake upgrades.  These upgrades would be the first of their kind and engineered as “systems” utilizing purpose designed components to integrate seamlessly to a vehicle. This initial endeavor eventually became part of a global effort lead by Brembo Italy that established an official Brembo High Performance Program. As a result Jaime formed a new company, Race Technologies, that signed on as the first High Performance Master Distributor and later became the exclusive U.S. Commercial Partner in 2004.

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Race Technologies Costa Mesa location which was located next door to Brembo North America

In 2008, Brembo moved their headquarters from California to Plymouth, MI to support the OE’s and their U.S. operations. Race Technologies then assumed the primary responsibility of the California facility and became the sole U.S. Importer for Brembo High Performance. The new structure proved to be highly effective by directly aligning the sales and logistics efforts of Race Technologies with the manufacturing and production process in Brembo Italy.

Here’s a video of Jaime Trimble going over the Brembo Performance program on the GT Channel (November 15th, 2011).

In 2012, Brembo and Race Technologies began working together to support the rapidly growing needs of the Far East (Asia) market. As part of this effort, Race Technologies began working closely with and supplying the Official High Performance Importers, Dealers, and Distributors in the region. The results of the collaboration shortened product lead times, increased protection of Brembo’s brand integrity, and reduced the presence of grey market products.

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Race Technologies provides market development, supply chain management and technical product support. Through our strategic partnership with Brembo and Sabelt, we support an international network of Official Dealers and Distributors that serve the automotive performance and racing community.

In 2013, Race Technologies became the official importer for Brembo Racing and Sabelt (Brembo Group 2008-2015). As the world’s leading braking supplier in professional motorsports, Brembo recognized the growing overlap between amateur, club, and professional racing in the U.S. In an effort to better serve these market segments, Brembo directly aligned their High Performance and Racing programs. The new structure expanded service and support to all segments of the racing market.

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The Race Technologies facility in Moorseville, North Carolina which supports Brembo U.S. Racing Operations.

In late 2013 and early 2014, Race Technologies established two new facilities to support the future growth of the Brembo High Performance, Racing, and Sabelt programs. The first was a newly designed 30,000 sq. ft. facility located in Irvine, California to serve as a hub and U.S. headquarters. The second, located in Mooresville, North Carolina was to support all of the U.S Racing programs. Both facilities are shared by Race Technologies and Brembo staff including on-site engineers and program managers for each market segment.

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The newly designed 30,000 sq. ft. Race Technologies facility located in Irvine, California to serve as a hub and U.S. headquarters.

Today, Race Technologies is a team of dedicated professionals that represent the Brembo and Sabelt brands and proudly serve an international network of official dealers and distributors. With all of the success and growth of the company over the past 15 years, “What we do” has certainly changed, but one thing that has not is “Who we are”. We remain true to our enthusiast roots and recognize that our customers are why we are here and we must always strive to “Be The Solution”.

Contacting Race Technologies:

THE OFFICIAL DEALER/DISTRIBUTOR NETWORK THAT WE SUPPORT

Race Technologies provides market development, supply chain management, and technical product support. Through our strategic partnership with Brembo, we support an international network of Official Dealers and Distributors that serve the automotive performance and racing community.

BREMBO PERFORMANCE
The Americas
Asia-Pacific
Middle East

BREMBO RACING
North America
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RACE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC (HEADQUARTERS)
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA
Brembo Performance | Brembo Racing
17422 Murphy Avenue
Irvine, CA 92614
(No walk-ins. By appointment only)
T: (714) 438.1118
www.racetechnologies.com

RACE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
MOORESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA
Brembo Racing
118 Infield Ct # A,
Mooresville, NC 28117
(No walk-ins. By appointment only)
T: (704) 799-0079
www.racetechnologies.com

Brembo Performance
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How to Measure Your Wheel for Proper Brake Clearance

Before you buy, regardless of wheel size, you must confirm brake system to wheel clearance before purchasing a Brembo Performance system.

oe-wheel-brake-fitment_brembo

These CAD drawings represent the clearance of an Original Equipment (left) brake system compared to a GT system with inadequate clearance (middle), and one with proper clearance (far right).

Brembo Performance brake systems are always designed to maximize wheel fitment. However larger components are often required to meet performance parameters determined by Brembo engineers, so it may be necessary to utilize a wheel spacer or to upgrade to an aftermarket wheel with adequate clearance. There are a number of variables that can affect wheel clearance including wheel diameter, wheel offset, and wheel design.

In order to determine if a wheel has adequate clearance, please follow the instructions below or download a printable copy of these instructions by clicking here.

PRINTING THE TEMPLATE

  • STEP 1: Look up your application (Year/Make/Model search) on www.racetechnologies.com.
  • STEP 2: Select your brake system.
  • STEP 3: Download or open the PDF document listed under Wheel Clearance information. Note: All Brembo GT/GT-R systems have a specific corresponding wheel clearance diagram (brake profile cross section).
  • STEP 4: Print out the document, but be sure to make sure you’re printing at full scale (1:1 or at 100% size). There’s a ruler on the bottom right-hand side of the page to compare it with.
  • STEP 5: Cut out the shape of the template to include the caliper, bell, and disc.
  • Optional: You may want to back the cut-out with a piece of cardboard or foam core to make sure that the template is sturdy enough to get a proper gauge of your wheel clearance.

MEASURING YOUR WHEEL

  • STEP 1: Remove a wheel.
  • STEP 2: Place the wheel carefully on its face and measure out the A/B/C dimensions with a straight edge or create a template from the clearance diagram.
  • STEP 3: If using a clearance diagram attached to tag board as a template, be sure to double check that the template retains the actual dimensions from the original diagram.
  • STEP 4: Allow 3mm in all directions from the caliper to the wheel.
  • STEP 5: If the caliper contacts the inner wheel spokes, a wheel spacer may be used to move the wheel out away from the caliper. When using spacers, we recommend only considering high quality hubcentric spacers (and longer wheel bolts/lugs when needed). It is also important to confirm that the wider track will allow the tire to clear the fenders in all positions.

EXAMPLE BELOW

  • We are using part #1n1.9003A (a 2013 BMW M3) for our example.
bmw-m3-brake-clearance

The kit number is shown on the lower right, and all measurements are shown in millimeters. The diagrams are shown at full scale, but once they have been printed these measurements must be confirmed before use. We colored in the CAD drawing to help make it easier to understand the brake assembly cross section. The red area represents the rotated profile of the caliper, the dark grey colored area is the bell, and the silver area is the disc.

IMG_2883a

The A dimension is 34.9mm The B dimension is 134mm The C dimension is 220.7mm

wheel-cross-section_brembo_web

In this example, the clearance diagram has the center of the wheel marked with a yellow highlighter. If you rotate the previous diagram and set it into the wheel, it would look like the diagram above that includes a wheel cut-away. That same yellow line is represented by the dashed line below. The drawing above is a cut-away of a GT system inside of a wheel on its face.

IMG_2871b_large

The diagrams are shown at full scale, but once they have been printed these measurements must be confirmed before use.

brake-clearance_2853

Place the cut-out inside the wheel well. If the cut-out is too flimsy, you may need to adhere it to a piece of cardboard to help with getting a proper gauge on your brake to wheel clearance.

spoke-top-clearance_2855

Allow 3mm in all directions from the caliper to the wheel. Note: the imagery and highlighted areas is meant to be an approximation to help illustrate the tutorial.

All Brembo Performance systems are custom packaged to order, so they cannot be returned due to wheel fitment which is why it’s very important to verify brake and wheel fitment before placing your order.


Brembo Performance
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Brembo Performance (GT, GT|R) & Brembo Racing Systems – Subaru Impreza WRX STi

Brembo Performance (GT, GT|R) & Brembo Racing Systems – Subaru Impreza WRX STi

 BREMBO RACING APPLICATION

Written by G.Krishnan and G.Taniguchi

The Subaru WRX STi is demanding on brakes due to the high COG (Center of Gravity), longer pedal stroke (pedal ratio), and the chassis balance which forces the front brakes to do a bulk of the braking work. Brembo performance and specific race systems are designed with each specific application and the chassis requirements in mind. This specific 4 piston Brembo Racing system using a 328 x 35 mm disc for the Subaru WRX STi was designed specifically to help clear most 17″ wheels and with a true motorsport application in mind (Touring Car Racing). Understanding that each chassis, team, driver pairing is different: all the variables were considered when engineering a race system for a professional team racing in a professional series versus an OEM type or aftermarket system designed for a wide range of operating environments that a road system would experience to the occasional rigors of a track day.

2015 Spec Subaru NBR 24 Brembo brakes. Photo: Subaru MSM

2015 Spec Subaru NBR 24 Brembo brakes. Photo: Subaru MSM

Subaru Nurburgring 24 Challenger - Brembo Racing package equipped

Subaru Nurburgring 24 Challenger – Brembo Racing endurance package equipped

Advantages of the Brembo Racing Disc Range:

  • Stock Disc Size:  The OE Subaru WRX STi stock disc size is 325 x 30 and most aftermarket systems on the market which clear smaller wheels make a considerable compromise in thermal capacity. This is why Brembo offers a 328 x 35 mm or 350 x 34 mm Brembo type V or type III face type disc. These racing discs for the Brembo race systems are a huge step up in thermal capacity compared to OE and the thermal mass is closer to what all professional Subaru STi motorsport GT teams are using around the world.
  • Disc Casting/Vane Count:  Brembo is one of the only braking companies which controls the engineering, design, and manufacturing process of components and brake systems from start to finish. The specific Brembo Racing 328 x 35 mm disc uses a large 19 mm air gap typically (vs. 10-14 mm) and 72 vane disc configuration which is designed to maximize the cooling surface area of the disc while keeping the Outer Diameter (OD) of the disc on the smaller side to assist with wheel clearance.  The Brembo vane design is substantially better than the vane designs used by the OE discs or typical “racing” branded products.
Brembo 328 x 35 72 vane discs. Photo: Lachute Performance.

Brembo Racing 328 x 35, 72 vane discs. Photo: Lachute Performance.

  • Brembo type V Face type:  The Brembo type V face type is a motorsport developed face type with comparable initial response compared to a typical sprint disc while focusing on braking control, modulation and low wear of the consumable parts (pads/discs). The Brembo Racing type V face type is designed to offer lower pad and disc wear for certain long distance endurance races or heavy duty braking applications.
Brembo Race system with Type V Discs. Photo: Lachute Performance.

Brembo Racing 4 piston system with Type V Discs. Photo: Lachute Performance.

  • Pad Area / Disc Surface Area:  The stock Subaru WRX STi 4 piston pads use a large annulus (radial depth from outer to inner diameter of the disc) for maximum pad surface area. For this heavy duty STi motorsport package, Brembo engineered it with an extremely high thermal brake disc which is 35 mm thick and also has an annulus (radial depth from OD to ID of disc) of 64 mm (the specific pad uses a 61.5 mm annulus).  This increased annulus leads to higher overall thermal capacity leading to lower disc temperatures and significant improvements in the pad and disc life.


Advantages of the Brembo Racing Caliper Range:

Brembo develops vehicle specific performance and racing brake packages designed specifically for the chassis they are supplied for. All Brembo race systems include all the specific parts needed to bolt the system right onto the vehicle without any modifications.

  • Brembo 4-piston caliper range: Brembo Racing calipers are specifically chosen for the intended applications and environments they are used for. The 4-piston Brembo Racing caliper used specifically for many of the more affordable or track day race systems can accept a 328 > 355 mm diameter disc range with either a 32 or 34 mm disc thickness. The caliper is also available in many various piston size configurations so the pistons can be sized specifically for proper brake balance. As generally production based cars have much higher weights, horsepower levels, and are more “open” in terms of setup versus dedicated race cars, a proper caliper is specified to meet the demands. This extended range gives Brembo the ability to tailor the brake system (caliper, brake discs, and pads) specifically to the chassis whether for motorsports or track day use.
Brembo Racing calipers are available in a wide range of piston configurations and can accept a wide range of discs. Photo: Alex Roy

Brembo Racing calipers are available in a wide range of piston configurations and can accept a wide range of discs. Photo: Alex Roy

  • Piston Size:  Brembo engineers racing systems specific to the chassis and the application keeping the growing demands of the user in mind. The Subaru WRX STi OE caliper and the caliper used with this race system use 40 / 44 mm pistons. The effective brake torque required by the STi is closer to 40 / 44 because the chassis does most of the braking in the front. Brembo race systems generally keep the brake balance close to what the requirements of the chassis are, as altering or moving the brake balance significantly can detrimentally affect the chassis dynamics on the street or race track.
Brembo Racing 4 piston caliper with staggered pistons for optimum balance. Photo: Alex Roy

Brembo Racing 4 piston caliper with staggered pistons for optimum balance. Photo: Alex Roy

  • Brake Feel & Control: Brembo calipers offer superior braking feel and control compared to other calipers on the market. This comes from the many years of experience engineering and manufacturing motorsport calipers, including pistons, and piston seal grooves which heavily influence brake feel which is critical at the highest levels of professional motorsports. This is also one key reason why Brembo is used prominently throughout all forms of motorsports.
  • Heat Rejection:  Brembo motorsport specific calipers (including the Brembo Performance GT-R caliper range) use either solid or ventilated stainless steel piston inserts for effective heat rejection. This helps protect the brake fluid and caliper seals from heat allowing greater braking stability in extreme duty or motorsport applications. Depending on the application and caliper design, the piston or piston insert material and design can be specified accordingly.
Stainless steel inserts on a Brembo Racing caliper. Photo: Alex Roy

Stainless steel inserts on a Brembo Racing caliper. Photo: Alex Roy

  • Knock back:  brake pedal knock back is generally not a function of the brakes and more of flex in the upright, hub or knuckle assembly. However, symptoms of knock back (pedal travel requiring the driver to double-tap the pedal prior to the brake zone) are generally felt in the brakes leading to a lack of confidence from the driver. Brembo can work closely with the customer (or team) to trouble shoot and remedy knock back like symptoms in ways which are specific to the application. Some of the ways knock back can be remedied are through: specific piston sizes, adjustment of float in the disc to hat assembly or occasionally through knock back springs if the piston design can accept the springs. Contrary to popular belief, there is no one “magic bullet” solution or component which can cure knock back without other technical drawbacks.

This is why it is important to understand the customer’s requirements, and work closely to address their technical needs.

  • Swing Bridge: Brembo calipers are specified with swing or integral (fixed) bridges depending on the intended environment and chassis. Brembo’s swing bridge design requires no tools to open up the caliper to change brake pads. When a chassis or category of racing requires a fixed integral bridge, a specific caliper can be supplied to meet those demands.
Brembo Swing Bridge design allows for fast pad changes. Photo: Alex Roy

Brembo Swing Bridge design allows for fast pad changes. Photo: Alex Roy

  • Overall Pad Thickness: The Brembo OE WRX STi calipers use a standard 15 mm pad, and Brembo Performance calipers can accept up to an 18 mm pad depending on the exact caliper spec. With Brembo Racing calipers, they can usually accept a 20, 25, or 29 mm pad depending on the exact caliper specification. This can be quite a significant gain because thicker pads not only dramatically improves overall pad wear rates, but it also helps with overall pedal consistency (pads also function as a barrier against heat transfer to the pistons from the braking surfaces).
Brembo Race system. Photo: Lachute performance

Brembo Race system for Subaru WRX STi. Photo: Lachute performance

LP Motorsport STi competing in Canadian Touring Car Series. Photo: Lachute/LP Motorsport

LP Motorsport STi competing in Canadian Touring Car Series. Photo: Lachute/LP Motorsport

BREMBO PERFORMANCE “HIGH-THERMAL” APPLICATION:

Due to nature of the Subaru WRX STi and the brake demand of the application, Brembo Performance “High-Thermal” or Heavy Duty packages are also offered for street and track use. The Subaru STi, depending on the model, did get a range of OEM Brembo systems starting with 4 piston front / 2 piston rears or 6 piston front / 2 or 4 piston rears for certain overseas models. Brembo works very closely with car manufacturers to develop specific brake solutions for specific models and markets however, with OEM systems, there are always compromises as these systems are still limited by cost, serviceability, and comfort requirements of the car manufacturer.

STi RA-R OE System

Subaru STi RA-R / R205 OE Brembo System

The Subaru Impreza STi Type RA-R and R205 models (Non US, overseas models only) got the most sophisticated of the OE Brembo systems. They feature Brembo 6 piston front and 2 or 4 piston rear calipers, paired with a 340 x 32 mm Brembo front disc using a very unique high performance face type. Sourcing, retrofitting, and servicing these OE brake systems is generally very time consuming as OE Subaru parts can only be sourced from Subaru (per Brembo’s relationship with the auto manufacturer) which can really add up because the replacement parts are unique to the OE components (replacement disc rings, seals).

The Brembo Performance 350 x 34 “HD” brake system for the Subaru WRX STi offers significant improvements even over the high performance Subaru OE System while being cost effective ($3995 MSRP versus $4000-$5000 for the Subaru OE components):

Brembo 350 x 34 HD System for Subaru WRX STi

Brembo Performance GT system: 350 x 34 HD (Heavy Duty/High Thermal) system for Subaru WRX STi

Brembo Performance Caliper and Pad Feature & Benefits:

  • Feature: 6 piston sequential pistons sized specifically to the STi OE Master cylinder, ABS, and chassis.
  • Benefit: Maintain optimum performance and brake balance for the Subaru Impreza WRX STi for street or track use while minimizing pad taper.
  • Feature: Lightweight Mono bloc caliper with integral bridge versus a standard pin bridge on the Subaru Brembo OE system.
  • Benefit: Improved rigidity and pedal feel in a wide range of environments from high performance street to track use.
  • Feature: High temperature recessed seals and dust boots.
  • Benefit: Optimum performance at elevated temperatures seen on track while still maintaining drivability on the street. Motorsport use only calipers without dust seals need interval servicing as the piston seals do not have any protection against the environments.
  • Feature: Larger brake pad area compared to OE, while using wide 65 mm annulus, and 18 mm overall thickness*
  • Benefit: Using thicker pads with greater pad surface area helps with overall longevity of consumables and stable performance.

*Subaru WRX STi RA-R/R205 OE 6 piston caliper pads use a smaller pad area, using a 54 mm annulus and are only 15.5 or 16 mm thick*

  • Feature: Friction material choices**
  • Benefit: Whether used for performance street or for dedicated track use: Race Technologies can choose from a wide range of street/track dual purpose, sprint or endurance race pads to best suit the customer’s intended use and environment.

**All Brembo systems come equipped with high performance Brembo/Ferodo FM1000 brake pads, which is a great dual purpose street and track compound. However, for specific use, other compound choices are available upon request.

Pad Options for Brembo Performance systems

There’s a range of pad options for Brembo Performance systems (Brembo, Ferodo, Race Technologies, etc).

Brembo Performance Disc Assembly Feature & Benefits:

  • Feature: Brembo 350 x 34 mm, 68 mm wide annulus, “high thermal” discs.
  • Benefit: Improved brake torque and durability over the 340 x 32 mm OE Subaru 6 piston system discs found on the Impreza STi RA-R/S205 OE System.
  • Feature: 72 directional vane ventilation, with 19 mm air gap.
  • Benefit: Vastly improved cooling efficiency over the Subaru OE system pillar vane ventilation type, while maintaining the increased thermal capacity of the disc. This translates to lower brake temperatures and greater life of components under heavier use.
Brembo 72 vane ventilation

Brembo directional high thermal 72 vane ventilation which is a substantial increase over the Brembo OE pillar vane design.

  • Feature: Brembo Racing discs using Type III motorsport developed face type.
  • Benefit: Highest overall braking confidence as the Brembo’s aggressive face type places a strong emphasis on a high initial response (bite) and smooth release characteristics.
Brembo Type III Racing Disc

Brembo Type III Racing Disc

  • Feature: Brembo Performance 2-piece disc assembly with anti-rattle hardware.
  • Benefit: Brembo Performance 2 piece disc assemblies are lighter and more durable than typical 1 piece disc or other “aftermarket” 2 piece disc assemblies. Brembo anti-rattle hardware allows the disc to expand and float on the bell while reducing noise. When time for replacement, only the disc ring and hardware needs to be replaced instead of the entire disc assembly.
Brembo Anti-Rattle hardware

Brembo anti-rattle hardware (a Brembo innovation)

Brembo’s extensive background in professional motorsport with Subaru and as the OE brake supplier to Subaru gives extensive experience with the platform’s braking needs. This allows Brembo to develop a wide range of performance and racing solutions to meet the growing demands of Subaru customers whether for street, track or racing use.

Subaru Nurburgring 24 Challenger

Subaru Nurburgring 24 Challenger equipped with Brembo Racing brake package.

Other key advantages:

  • Friction Program & Development:  Race Technologies and Brembo have a flexibility with friction that few brake manufacturers and suppliers have.  Unique compounds and pad shapes can be developed in relatively short lead times to meet the growing demands of professional racing teams and drivers.  With the greater thermal capacity engineered into the Brembo system, we can choose higher friction, heavier duty friction pad options as well.  Race Technologies has helped several top factory supported Motorsport teams win endurance, sprint races & championships in professional racing purely based on the available range of the friction program.
Race Technologies Pads

Race Technologies pads. These pads were developed to offer up a specific solution for track or race use.

  • Brembo HTC64T brake Fluid:  Brembo is one of 2 brake fluid suppliers to F1 and the Brembo HTC fluid is also one of the few racing brake fluids being actually purchased by professional sports car racing teams. Brembo Racing fluids have lower compressibility which leads to a more consistent pedal feel, better fluid recovery, and higher dry boiling points compared to other fluids.
Brembo Racing and Performance Fluid Range

Brembo Racing and Performance Fluid Range: HTC 64T (track, racing), LCF600 plus (street, track, racing), Sport EVO 500++ (street)

Brembo (General News) Brembo Performance Brembo Racing
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Brembo 2-piece disc, brake fluid, and pad install on GMG Racing’s 991 GT3

GMG Racing 991 GT3 – Brembo Performance Install & Review

GMG Racing, an Official Brembo dealer, is one of the premier high performance and professional racing shops in Southern California who specialize in Porsche track preparation. GMG Racing’s background in professional racing campaigning multi-car efforts in the Pirelli World Challenge series with both Porsche and Audi FIA GT3 platforms. Using this extensive racing experience accumulated over the years, GMG Racing also offers up the same upgrades supplied by their technical partners that they trust on the racetrack.

James Sofronas, owner driver of GMG Racing, also owns a personal 991 GT3 shop car to showcase GMG’s capabilities on and off the track. One such way is by holding track day and driver training specifically for 991 GT3 owners at The Thermal Club raceway which is very demanding on brakes and tires.

GMG Racing 991 GT3 Trackday. Photo Credit : GMG Racing

GMG Racing 991 GT3 Trackday. Photo Credit : GMG Racing

One of the first major upgrades done to the GMG Racing’s 991 “WC-GT3” was improve the braking reliability, longevity, and performance under track use. GMG Racing swapped out the Porsche OE discs, pads and fluid on the 991 GT3 with Brembo 2-piece discs, Race Technologies pads, and Brembo Racing HTC64T fluid.

GMG Racing 991

GMG Racing 991 “WC-GT3”

INGREDIENTS REQUIRED:

  • Porsche 991 GT3
  • GMG Racing
  • Brembo 2-piece front disc assemblies.
  • Brembo 2-piece rear disc assemblies
  • Your choice of front and rear pads although Race Technologies TS20’s were used.
  • 6 bottles of Brembo HTC64T Racing brake fluid.
  • Tarett Engineering brake caliper studs (*optional, supplied by GMG Racing)
GMG Racing 991 GT3.

GMG Racing 991 GT3 in stock form.

BRAKE DISC COMPARISON

While the 991 GT3 has very sophisticated brakes for an OE brake package, there is always more that can be done with certain components to improve overall longevity and performance. The OE Porsche brake discs, pads and fluid are all engineered with comfort, serviceability and cost effectiveness in mind.

Brembo OE co-cast discs

Brembo OE co-cast discs

As the braking system’s primary function is to dissipate heat, Brembo uses purpose-designed discs in order to increase the fade resistance and thermal capacity of the system. These discs are directionally ventilated for enhanced cooling and slotted for better performance and continuously refreshing the pad surface. Brembo 2-piece discs are made up of a proprietary advanced cast-iron alloy which offers an exceptional coefficient of friction and resistance to thermal shock and fatigue.

The same Brembo Racing discs trusted every weekend in professional motorsports are also utilized in the Brembo Performance program (GT, GT-R & club race systems).

The OE 991 GT3 co-cast Brembo discs are sized 380 x 34 mm in the front and weigh 24 lbs, and 380 x 30 mm in the rear weighing at 23.4 lbs. The Brembo Racing Heavy Duty “HD” type V front disc assemblies are 24.5 lbs, and the rear Type III assemblies are 22 lbs. The 991 Turbo discs are substantially heavier than the GT3 discs as the Turbo models are harder on front brakes than the GT3 models. Brembo 2-piece disc assemblies on a 991 GT3 or Turbo will offer a net gain in weight savings.

Brembo Porsche OE discs vs Brembo Performance 2-piece disc assemblies

Brembo Porsche OE discs vs Brembo Performance 2-piece disc assemblies

There are many advantages to replacing the OE discs on a Porsche GT3 or Turbo, some of them are:

  • OEM Integration: Brembo upgrades are designed to work seamlessly with the OE Master, ABS and existing brake systems (Example: Integration with the rear parking brake)
  • Weight Savings: Reducing overall un-sprung weight helps improve vehicle dynamics such as handling, braking, and acceleration.
  • Durability: The Brembo discs for these Porsche disc assemblies come from the Brembo Racing program. These discs feature proprietary metallurgy which is resistant to fatigue, cracking, and are engineered for maximum longevity on the street or track.
  • Different Slot Types: Extensively used in professional motorsports, Brembo type III and type V disc face types can be used to tune or adjust the brakes’ technical characteristics to the chassis or driver.
  • Range: Brembo offers lightweight and heavy duty “HD” disc options to suit the needs of the driver, car model (Turbo or GT3) /setup and environment.
  • Replacements: Brembo replacement rings are comparably priced to OE, and when the Brembo discs are worn, only the outer disc ring and hardware needs to be replaced.
  • Drivability: Brembo 2-piece discs maintain the drivability of the OE brakes by using anti-rattle hardware. Brembo’s specific anti-rattle disc hardware utilizes a spring fastener in order to slightly preload the assembly which eliminates the noise (clattering) generally associated with floating discs.

Brembo OE Porsche disc vs Brembo 380 mm 72 vane racing disc

Brembo McLaren spring

Brembo McLaren spring

NOTE: Brembo’s specific anti-rattle hardware which is commonly used in high performance brake disc assemblies was actually developed in the 1990s. This innovation was initially engineered exclusively for the McLaren F1 supercar which is why the hardware is often nicknamed the “McLaren” spring.

 BRAKE DISC INSTALLATION

GMG technicians Ruben and Sergei (who drives a 997 Turbo himself) used their extensive Porsche know how to install the Brembo 2 piece disc assemblies on the GMG 991 GT3 shop car.

GMG Technicians working on GMG 991 GT3

GMG Technicians working on GMG 991 GT3

 FRONT DISC ASSEMBLIES

The OE front discs were the first to be installed. The Brembo performance 2-piece discs and Race Technologies pads are a direct replacement to the OE units. GMG made sure to push the pistons all the way back in to ensure proper stack width (2 pads and brake rotor total width). The Porsche center lock “lug” was then removed and the Brembo 2-piece disc assembly and pads were then installed. Once the Brembo performance disc assemblies were fitted, the OE Caliper was re-installed using brand new caliper studs. The entire process was done on the front right disc, and then the front left disc.

Porsche 991 GT3 OE front brakes

Porsche 991 GT3 OE front brakes

Porsche centerlock unit

Porsche centerlock unit

Brembo Porsche OE front disc vs Brembo 380 mm racing disc and pads.

Brembo Porsche OE front disc vs Brembo 380 mm racing disc and pads.

The Race Technologies TS20 compound was specified as the baseline pad since the car will be street driven and used on the track. The TS20 offers low noise, dust and good pedal feel. It is also an excellent dual purpose compound for street and light track use.

Brembo 2-piece disc assembly fitted

Brembo 2-piece disc assembly fitted

Brembo 2-piece disc assembly installed

Brembo 2-piece disc assembly installed

Since the GMG Shop car is also their test car, the car will see extended track time on many southern California circuits. A Brembo Type V 380 x 34 mm front disc was specified for the lowest disc and pad wear under heavy track conditions. An optional Race Technologies endurance compound was also supplied for dedicated track use.

  • Brembo Type V (endurance face type): motorsport developed face type with marginally less initial response compared to the type III face type. The Brembo Racing type V face type was also designed to have lower pad and disc wear for certain long distance endurance races (mostly 10, 12 and 24 hour races).

REAR DISC ASSEMBLIES

Once the front disc assemblies were installed, GMG then turned their attention to the rear discs and pads. The exact same installation procedure was followed for the rear disc assemblies as well. The rear right corner was installed first, and then the rear left corner was installed. GMG installed new caliper studs on the rear as well when re-installing the OE Porsche calipers. Race Technologies TS20 compound pads were used for the rears as the baseline pad.

Porsche 991 GT3 rear brakes

Porsche 991 GT3 rear brakes

Porsche OE 991 GT3 rear discs vs Brembo performance Type III discs

Porsche OE 991 GT3 rear discs vs Brembo performance Type III discs

Tarrett Engineering Caliper studs used by GMG Racing.

Tarett Engineering Caliper studs used by GMG Racing.

GMG installed Tarett Engineering caliper studs.

GMG installed Tarett Engineering caliper studs.

RT TS20 rear pads

RT TS20 rear pads

The Brembo Type III 380 x 30 mm rear brake disc was specified for optimum balance and brake release under heavy track conditions. This is because the 991 GT3 shifts its’ brake balance towards the rear under braking. The smooth release characteristics of the Brembo Type III face type can help a driver avoid rear tire in stop lock up while still maintaining optimum braking performance.

  • Brembo Type III (aggressive face type): motorsport developed face type with an emphasis on high initial response while maintaining a smooth pedal release.
Brembo 380 x 30 Type III rear disc fitted.

Brembo 380 x 30 Type III rear disc fitted.

Brembo Performance Type III rear discs installed on GMG 991 GT3

Brembo Performance Type III rear discs installed on GMG 991 GT3

As mentioned earlier in this article, the Brembo 2-piece disc assemblies are compatible with the Porsche factory parking brake. One does not have to compromise and lose the parking brake functionality when installing the Brembo disc assemblies.

BRAKE FLUID AND BLEED

Upgrading brake fluid for spirited, track or racing use is easily one of the most overlooked things when thinking of upgrading any component or part of the brake system. Brembo’s HTC64T brake fluid is the top fluid used in the top professional racing categories around the world (Examples: F1, FIA GT, LMP1). This is because the Brembo fluid offers low compressibility, good after boil recovery, and high boiling points.

  • Brembo HTC64T Typical Applications: Open Wheel*, Stock Car, Rally, Endurance & Sprint GT**, Track Day.

*Brembo HTC64T is one of a very few select fluids being actively used by F1 teams.

**Brembo HTC64T and LCF600 Plus are both racing brake fluids which are actively used and homologated for FIA GT3 & GTE based sports-car racing.

  • Independently proven low Compressibility at severe temperatures.
  • Dry Boiling Point: 335 C (635 F)
  • Racing Use Only
Brembo HTC64T

Brembo HTC64T (used in F1, FIA, GT, LMP1)

Brake fluid performs a very critical function as it is the “life blood” of the brake system, as it is the foundation to hydraulically transfer brake pedal effort to the brake caliper’s pistons. Brake fluid also performs a vital function of lubricating caliper piston seals brake fluid performance (or the lack of) can directly affect brake pedal feel, pressure and consistency through the operating temperature range. It is also one the most cost effective ways to improve brake pedal consistency (avoiding spongy pedal) under high temperature use.

Once the Brembo performance 2-piece disc assemblies and RT pads were installed on all four corners, the OEM brake fluid was flushed and bled with Brembo Racing HTC64T brake fluid. As the fluid was being bled on each corner, GMG made sure to keep an ample amount of new fluid filled in the master cylinder reservoir to ensure that air did not enter into the hydraulic system.

Brembo fluid bleed

Brembo fluid bleed

Brembo HTC64 being poured in

Brembo HTC64 being poured in

ON TRACK IMPRESSIONS

To evaluate the results of the new Brembo discs, fluid bleed, and RT pads, the GMG Team took the 991 GT3 shop car to Thermal Club.

Driver (James Sofronas) and GMG Team comments: Testing out a new setup @thethermalclub today! @jamessofronas had the GMG 991 GT3 out and with the new Brembo Brake pad and Rotor setup says that the car is even more amazing! A predictable pedal feel without activating the ABS too early. A must have for any car that is going to see some track time! Combined with Pirelli Trofeo R tires it is just a winning combo!

Thermal Club Track layout. Image: Thermal Club

Thermal Club Track layout. Image: Thermal Club

Thermal Club located in Palm Springs, California often has very high ambient temperatures which can be demanding on the car, tires, and brakes. The effectiveness of brake cooling is only as good as the temperature of the air flowing thru the brake ducts (if the ambient air is hotter, the brakes will not cool down as much). The track layout and surface can be very similar to some of the European GT tracks, featuring many high speed to low speed braking zones, and a high level of mechanical grip (the more grip you have, the harder you can brake). GMG Racing has setup their shop GT3 understanding the demands of the various tracks around Southern California, and the Porsche 991 GT3, for optimal results.

GMG Racing 991 GT3 and R8 LMS Ultra at Thermal

GMG Racing 991 GT3 and R8 LMS Ultra at Thermal

Modern sports cars have very sophisticated OE ABS systems and engaging the ABS under braking can lead to poor threshold braking, lack of pedal feel, and potentially result in a slower lap time. Having a high overall level of braking confidence and control, usually allows the driver to spend less time on the brake pedal. If the brakes offer enough performance and control for the driver to stay out of ABS engagement (depending on their driving style and car setup), the result is usually a faster lap time on track.

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PORSCHE 911 GT3 (997): BREMBO 2-PIECE TY3 DISCS

PORSCHE 911 GT3 & TURBO (997): BREMBO 2-PIECE TY3 DISCS

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Porsche’s 911 (997) GT3 and Turbo are platforms engineered specifically for high performance use, which also have unique brake demands. (Example: 450 horsepower for a 3.8 GT3 RS and 500 horsepower for a 4.0 GT3 RS)

The Brembo OE brakes equipped on the specific Porsche 997 GT3 & Turbo models are a sophisticated design for an OE application. The Porsche Brembo OE brakes utilize 6-piston aluminum fixed monobloc calipers front and 4-piston aluminum fixed monobloc calipers rear. The brake discs are heavy duty 380 x 34 mm ventilated front and 350 x 28 mm rear brake discs. While 997 GT3 and Turbo brakes physically look similar, their piston configuration and brake balance are tuned for the specific chassis. The GT3 places more of the brake balance towards the rear, while the Turbo is more demanding on the front brakes due to the AWD (All Wheel Drive) system and electronic aids.

The Porsche 911 GT3 OE brakes use a wide annulus (radial depth) front and rear for maximum pad swept area (this makes a significant difference in thermal capacity and pad life). The OE pads are also 18.5 mm thick front and rear which is comparable to most high performance aftermarket calipers.

There are certain limitations with the OE components on any high performance application as they are designed specifically for the car manufacturers to their requirements of comfort, wear rates in various road environments, cost, and serviceability.

As the braking system’s primary function is to dissipate heat, Brembo uses purpose-designed discs in order to increase the fade resistance and thermal capacity of the system. These Brembo Racing discs are directionally ventilated for enhanced cooling and slotted for better performance and continuously refreshing the pad surface. Brembo 2-piece discs are made up of a proprietary advanced cast-iron alloy which offers an exceptional coefficient of friction and resistance to thermal shock and fatigue.

The same Brembo Racing discs trusted every weekend in professional motorsports are also utilized in the Brembo Performance program (GT, GT|R, & Race Systems).

997 GT3 with Brembo Racing Type III rear discs. Installed by BBi Autosport. Photo Credit : Jerry Truong / BBi

997 GT3 with Brembo Racing Type III rear discs. Installed by BBi Autosport. Photo Credit : Jerry Truong / BBi

BENEFITS OF BREMBO 2-PIECE DISC UPGRADES:

  • OEM INTEGRATION: Brembo 2-piece disc upgrades are designed to work seamlessly with the OE calipers and systems (manufactured by Brembo for Porsche). This guarantees the utmost in safety and seamless fitment.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: Disc assemblies include an outer iron disc with aluminum bell/hat and provide decreased corner weights to improve vehicle dynamics including handling, acceleration, and braking.
  • TY3 SLOT PATTERN: Extensively used in professional motorsports, the type III slot pattern offers a high initial response with excellent release characteristics.
  • HIGH THERMAL CAPACITY: Greatly improved thermal capacity and heat management over OE discs and other aftermarket discs in the market. This also improves braking performance and allows for greater longevity of the components.
  • FRICTION MATERIALS: Everything we learn by supporting top professional racing teams throughout the world goes into selecting the best brake pad options for all levels of street, track and racing use.
Falken 997 GT3R at 2015 Nurburgring 24 equipped with Type III Brembo discs. Photo Credit : Falken Motorsports

Falken 997 GT3R at 2015 Nurburgring 24 equipped with TY3 Brembo discs. Photo Credit : Falken Motorsports

PACKAGES INCLUDE:

  1. Outer Brembo TY3 discs (qty 2).
  2. 6061 T6 aluminum (machined from billet) hard anodized bell/hat.
  3. Complete Brembo disc hardware (D-type bobbin) w/anti-rattle springs (full floating option available upon request)
  4. Some systems include choice of street or race pads.

BREMBO 911 GT3 & TURBO (997) 2-PIECE DISC OPTIONS:

FRONT BREMBO 2-PIECE DISC OPTIONS: 911 GT3 OE IRON OR PCCB EQUIPPED

MSRP COMPLETE AXLE SET W/PADS: $2,495.00*
*FRONT SYSTEM INCLUDES PADS

911 GT3 Front disc specifications:

–          380 x 34 disc – Lightweight
–          TY3 face type
–          20 mm air-gap (wide air-gap for overall brake disc weight reduction)
–          72 vane ventilation
–          21 lbs – disc ring
–          23 lbs – complete 2-piece disc assembly
–          Compatible with 911 GT3 and Turbo (997) Models

911 GT3 Front “High Thermal” disc specifications:

–          380 x 34 disc – High Thermal
–          TY3 or TY5 “Endurance” face type available.
–          17 mm air-gap (narrow air-gap for the brake disc to have extra thermal capacity and durability under higher brake demand conditions)
–          72 vane ventilation
–          23 lbs – disc ring
–          24.5 lbs – complete 2-piece disc assembly
–          Compatible with 911 GT3 and Turbo (997) Models

REAR BREMBO 2-PIECE DISC OPTIONS: 911 GT3 OE IRON or PCCB EQUIPPED

MSRP COMPLETE AXLE SET: $1,895.00

911 GT3 Rear “High Thermal” disc specifications:

–          350 x 28 disc – High Thermal
–          TY3 slot type
–          16 mm air-gap
–          72 vane ventilation
–          14.5 lbs – disc ring.
–          16 lbs – complete 2-piece disc assembly
–          Compatible with 911 GT3 and Turbo (997) Models
–          Integrates into factory parking brake

PORSCHE 911 GT3 (997.2) OEM DISC WEIGHTS – FOR REFERENCE:

– Front, 380 x 34: 24.1 lbs
– Rear, 350 x 28: 20.7 lbs

PORSCHE 911 GT3 (997.1) OEM DISC WEIGHTS – FOR REFERENCE:

– Front, 350 x 34: 26.4 lbs
– Rear, 350 x 28: 21.9 lbs

PORSCHE 911 Turbo (997) OEM DISC WEIGHTS – FOR REFERENCE:

– Front, 350 x 34: 25.6 lbs
– Rear, 350 x 28: 21.9

997 GT3 with Brembo Racing Type V Front discs. Installed by BBi Autosport. Photo Credit : Jerry Truong / BBi

997 GT3 with Brembo Racing Type V Front discs. Installed by BBi Autosport. Photo Credit : Jerry Truong / BBi

PROFESSIONALS CHOOSE BREMBO
FROM PORSCHE TEAMS, ENGINEERS, TO DRIVERS

Porsche factory run 997 GT3-R Hybrid at Petit Le-Mans. Photo : James Boone

Porsche factory run 997 GT3-R Hybrid at Petit Le-Mans. Photo : James Boone

“At Olsen Motorsports we only use the best, most reliable components on the market. Brembo has come to the table with a complete package that has changed the way we think about brakes. With the many options in friction we are able to put together track specific brake packages to get the last bit of pace out of the many chassis’ s that we work with to stay consistent, competitive, and up front on track. The longevity and consistency of the product is amazing, and that coupled with the accessibility, knowledge, and support of the factory, Brembo is now the only brand that we offer to our customers”.

Tim Olsen, owner of Olsen Motorsports

“Ok, here‘s a factual event that happened to us, it was very eye opening to me at the time, I thought “this cannot be possible”, but it was because we did a back to back test later that morning and sure enough, it fixed the problem (this was at a Sebring test in February, the weather was mid 70’s to low 80’s).  The driver complained of poor threshold feel, we replaced the pads thinking they had lost their friction potential, still the same result. So then we changed rotors (thinking “this is insane but what the hell”), and on the second lap the driver called in saying “I can brake properly now”.  I learned a lot that day, to never be closed minded about things that otherwise seem obvious.

 Brembo rotors, combined with the correct pads, allow the driver to decelerate the car harder and more controllably because the materials are properly compatible – this is not case with other rotors and pads and we know this because we did back to back tests, the drivers response and the data proved it”

Craig Watkins, former Engineer of Flying Lizard Motorsports for 10+ years

“Although often overlooked, the ability to stop is really the most important aspect of sports car racing.  As a driver, I have been trusting Brembo products to slow me down for the majority of my career.  I am very demanding of the brake system on my race cars.  I need stability at the initial brake application, and the ability to modulate smoothly off the brake pedal is essential for optimizing corner speeds.  Having Brembo components installed on the car always gives me the confidence to push the limits throughout the brake zones.”

” In fact, it was Brembo products on the Brumos Racing Porsche that helped us make that final charge for the 2011 Rolex Series Championship.  A qualifying issue in the final race placed us at the back of the grid, and it wouldn’t have been possible to make our way up to the front without maximizing stopping capacity.”

Andrew Davis, 2011 Grand-Am Rolex GT champion with Brumos Racing.

Brumos 997 Grand-Am Cup at Daytona 24 hour. Photo : James Boone

Brumos 997 Grand-Am Cup at Daytona 24 hour. Photo : James Boone

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Brembo Brake Discs: Face Types

HOW DISC FACE TYPES (SLOT / GROOVE TYPES) AFFECT BRAKE PERFORMANCE:

Brake discs are one of the major brake tuning options which a professional race team has at their disposal at any typical race weekend. There are many subtle changes that can be made to a brake disc casting or configuration which can drastically influence braking characteristics. A brake disc’s face type (slot / groove pattern) is one of those changes, and can influence many braking characteristics.

Some of them are:

  • Initial response (bite)
  • Control and modulation
  • Release
  • Pad wear
  • Disc wear
Brembo Racing Type III Discs installed on GMG Twin Turbo Audi R8

Brembo Racing Type III Discs installed on GMG Twin Turbo Audi R8

There are also many variables which are considered when engineering a brake disc face type. Changing some of these variables can drastically influence the overall performance of the brake disc. Some (of the many) variables which are taken into consideration for brake disc slot design are:

  • Slot depth
  • Slot angle
  • Length of slot
  • Number of slots
Audi R8 LMS with Brembo 370 mm Type 1 racing discs in the front. Photo: James Boone

Audi R8 LMS with Brembo 370 mm Type 1 racing discs in the front. Photo: James Boone

Brembo and Brembo Racing primarily offer 4 different brake disc face patterns based on the application, intended use, driver preference, and other technical requirements of the application or chassis.

Drilled: drilled brake discs are suitable for a wide range of applications, operating temperatures and driving environments (especially wet weather).

  • Benefit: offers the highest initial response of all the available disc face types while continuously refreshing the braking surface and being also typically a bit lighter.
  • Drawback: Drilled discs are generally more prone to heat checking and thermal cracking if used consistently at extremely high temperatures. This however, really depends on the track, driver, and chassis setup.
Brembo drilled disc assembly

Brembo drilled disc assembly

Type I: Brembo “8 straight – slot” face type with an emphasis on stable brake feel and improve resilience against thermal cracking.

  • Benefit: stable braking feel at all temperatures, low disc wear, and continuously refreshing the braking surface for optimum performance.
  • Drawback: The Type 1 standard disc face has the lowest “initial response” or “bite” compared to Brembo Drilled, Type III or Type V discs.
Brembo Type 1

Brembo Type 1 “8 slot” disc assembly

Type III (aggressive face type): motorsport developed face type with an emphasis on high initial response while maintaining a smooth pedal release.

  • Benefit: highest overall braking confidence, control, and allows driver to spend less time on the brake pedal. When chasing the fastest lap time, less time on the brake pedal typically leads to a quicker lap time.
  • Drawback: Any disc with an aggressive face type like the Type III will have a higher chance to mechanically abrade the pad and disc surface leading to quicker or uneven pad wear. However, this really depends on variables such as car setup or track layout.
Brembo Type III Disc assembly

Brembo Type III Disc assembly

Type V (Endurance face type): motorsport developed face type with marginally less initial response compared to the type III face type. The Brembo Racing type V face type was also designed to have lower pad and disc wear for certain long distance endurance races (mostly 10, 12 and 24 hour races).

  • Benefit: braking modulation and control similar to Type III, while offering lower overall pad and disc wear on the track.
  • Drawback: While the most well balanced of all Brembo face types, Type V discs generally do not have as high of an initial response compared to the Type III.
Brembo Type V Disc assembly

Brembo Type V Disc assembly

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