So my brakes had been squeeling badly and I noticed a groove on the rotor (this was about 4mnths ago) and I had the rotors turned. Then consequently by reading this board I read you can't turn them and now the rotors squeel and make all kinds of noise. So I was wondering what rotors you guys recommend, either volvo or zimmerman(from ipd). I just want to replace stock or next to stock and not spend a fortune but have no squeeling. And also I'm replacing the brake pads (i got NAPA) and yeah going with PBR or volvo. Thanks!

Erik

Replaced my front pads and rotors about 8K ago. Zimmerman (not cross drilled) rotors and metal master pads from IPD. Work great, NO DUST! By the way, if you have any problem getting your old rotors off (due to rust), use PB Blaster. I had a heck of a time until I got this magic elixer--I put it on the same throne as Duct Tape.

96 850T 84K miles

I used the Brembo. If they are good enough for a Porshe, they should work fine on the Volvo. Believe that all 4 rotors were under $100.

My experience with brake pads on the 850 has been that the higher performance pads don't really cost that much more, and by going with an uprated pad you can a) decrease the amount of squeal, b) get a nice bump in braking performance, and c) cut down on the amount of dust generated. My car had the factory pads in it when I purchased it, and the amount of dust being thrown onto the wheels was incredible. Fortunately, they needed to be replaced soon after I bought the car. I went with the PBR/Axxis metal master pads on factory rotors. With good shims and the liberal use of anti squeal compound I've had no problems, and the dust generation has been cut down dramatically. Braking performance is at least equal to the factory pads. My next upgrade will be to Brembo or Zimmerman rotors, and the PBR/Axxis ultimate kevlar/ceramic pads. I've got those pads and drilled/slotted Brembo rotors on my Triumph TR6 and it's a great setup. My buddy has been using Hawk pads for a long time now and loves them, and he puts his car on the track quite a bit, so I believe him when he says they work. I've also heard EBC green stuff pads are very good as well.

As far as the rotors being cut, they make them so close to the minimum spec thickness these days that it's almost like you can't cut them. From what I've read here and elsewhere it's pretty much agreed that Volvo intended these rotors to be consumable items. Given the relatively low cost of OEM replacement type rotors I can believe that, and the higher performance ones aren't that much more.

The reason that the rotors should not be machined is primartily so they do not warp. However, I have had them machined with success. Squealing is likely a function of the pads (although perhaps a function of higher heat of the thinner rotors). If you are replacing the pads anyway, try replacing them and the shims first (perhaps with some anti-squeal compound on the shims).

well i replaced the pads less than 10k miles ago so I know that they are good but I think the rotors are warped because it does not feel like it stops like it should. Ok so I was thinking PBR pads / zimmerman rotors from IPD unless there is a cheaper (but good place). Thanks,

erik

If your rotors are warped, your brake pedal will shudder like mad when you brake at 70mph. I suspect a lot of rotors are damaged when cut on lathes with a dull or incorrect tool bit overheating the metal. Everytime my IM cut my rotors, squeals were everywhere and nuttin fixed em til the rotors were replaced.

Brembo or Zimmerman crossdrilled rotors will improve your stopping power with a slight increase in noise. I am very satisfied with mine.

yup they do shudder like mad..kinda worries me when driving on the expressway..

recommendation of where / what to buy zimmerman crossdrilled?

Thanks,

Erik

http://www.fcpgroton.com/volvo850brakes.htm
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Ken

thanks guys, i think i'm going to just go with the brembo front rotors and the PBR ultimate brake pads (squeeling drives me mad). Maybe if I get some more cash I will get the zimmerman cross drilled (unless anyone advises against them). Thanks!

Erik

I personally wouldn't get the cross drilled. They will just warp sooner. I did mine with OEM pads and rotors that are Zimmermans. They are very close to OEM. Cost was about $100 delivered to my door. Took all of 1 hr 30 mins to install with cleaning, grease etc. Bought online.