I have: 98 Gr Caravan 3.3L SE
I dont know if I have original alloy wheels
but they could be. They are 15".
Does anyone know which is the more appropriate
front brake pad to use for this application
(semi-metallic vs. ceramic)? The parts dealer
is recommending the ceramic as necessary for
OE parameters.
vipergg
09-09-2008, 06:59 PM
I think both work adequetlly but if all the brake dust that semi metallic creates ticks you off get ceramic which largely elimnates this problem though they cost more , for me it was worth it .
Rick99
09-10-2008, 02:17 PM
Semi-metallic supposedly suffers less brake fade, but as said above, makes a lot of dust. I've only used semi-metalic so I can't really compare.
stratusfish
09-11-2008, 09:24 AM
well... I guess im going with Hawk HPS
RickMN
09-11-2008, 04:58 PM
Semi mets provide better braking because they dissipate heat faster. Which means they have less fade. On the flip side, they chew up rotors faster, make more noise, and turn your alloy wheels dark brown.
Just be aware that all ceramics are not created equal. There is NO industry standard on what materials go into a ceramic pad. I've seen ceramic pads for as little as $13/set and up to $58/set. Guess which ones won't last very long? So my advice is to stick with a well known name brand. I really like Wagner Thermo-Quiet ceramics as well as Raybestos PG ceramics.
