NEW: R35 GT-R CCM-X Carbon Ceramic Brake System by AP Racing
February 28, 2012
STILLEN Announces CCM-X – The next generation of Carbon-Ceramic Matrix Brakes for the Nissan R35 GT-R
The STILLEN R&D team continues to develop industry-leading performance products with long-standing technical partner AP Racing. Their hard work has resulted in the release of the next generation in Carbon-Ceramic Matrix (CCM-X) brakes for the Nissan GTR. This kit utilizes a new High Thermal Capacity (HTC) process which helps pull the heat from the CCM disc surface deeper into the 3D core to allow the discs to operate cooler through more efficient use of internal venting and air flow.
We have also homologated a new Pagid RSX1 pad material designed specifically for our new CCM-X discs for easier bedding and higher performance, these pads are ideal for use on the street and for track days.
The CCM-X disc assembly hardware has now been updated to include anti-rattle springs that still allow the full benefit of a floating disc, yet eliminates the “noise” associated with this style of disc.
During extreme performance testing at Auto Club Raceway in Fontana, CA, performing back-to-back repetitive testing runs pushing the limits of brake temperatures, the new combination of HTC CCM-X discs and Pagid RSX1 pad material reduced disc temperatures from an average of 1488F to 1346F, that’s 142 degrees cooler than the previous generation CCM. These real-world tests confirmed the results of our brake dyno testing at AP Racings lab in Coventry, England.
Once found only on the world’s most expensive supercars, Carbon-Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes have been developed for the first specifically-tuned aftermarket application – the Nissan R35 GT-R. These 400mm disc assemblies are larger than the standard OE iron discs, yet reduce weight by nearly half. This is rotating and unsprung weight, leading to improvements in all performance categories: acceleration, handling and braking.
After three decades of using carbon-carbon brakes on racing vehicles (even longer on fighter jets), AP Racing CCM discs are the next technological platform. Advancements in materials, process technologies and nanoparticle technology make it possible to use a special carbon fiber precursor along with new, patented process techniques. The unidirectional precursor is needled into a 3-Dimensional, continuous carbon fiber preform. This differs from lower cost technologies that use loose, chopped strand fibers and thin woven face plies bonded on as a friction surface. A true 3D matrix is stronger, more robust and provides longer life than the more brittle alternative. As a comparison, think quality hardwood versus particle board or MDF with a veneer.
Converting the 3D preform to carbon-carbon is done under high heat and pressure via methane cracking during a special carbon vapor infiltration (CVI) process. After initial machine work, a final conversion process results in a full matrix carbon-silicon carbide (CSiC). We call it Carbon-Ceramic Matrix, or CCM for short. The discs are then sent through the final machining, grinding, and balancing. Of course, the CCM discs are now so hard that only special diamond tooling can be used!
Who uses these ultimate CCM discs? The most up-to-date version is found on the Koenigsegg CCX and McLaren MP4-12C. And now – STILLEN and AP Racing have optimized a specific set for your R35 GT-R and its factory brake calipers.
The STILLEN-AP Racing CCM-X brake upgrade kit includes:
• Front & Rear CCM-X brake disc/hat assemblies
• Front & Rear Pagid RSX1 street & track use brake pads
• Caliper spacers
• Active brake cooling package required by Track Users (Not Shown – Sold separately and can also be used with Iron Rotors)
Note: Due to the dramatic reduction in overall mass, brake temperatures will run higher than the O.E. iron disc system given the same usage. STILLEN strongly recommends using AP Racing PRF brake fluid, one of the best high temperature fluids available. PRF is used in the most demanding Motorsports applications around the world.
Photos from Testing at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, CA:
GT-R doing a fly-by past STILLEN R&D Testing Equipment
Under the extreme conditions that the Carbon Ceramic kits are tested, rotors can glow bright orange
STILLEN R&D Logging Equipment
To get the best results, brake changes from old CCM to the new CCM-X were done at the track so outside conditions wouldn't be a big factor in test results
CCM Kit Under stock 2012 R35 GT-R wheels
STILLEN CEO Steve Millen under hard braking past a waypoint cone
The STILLEN R&D team discussing the difference in brake performance
2012 Nissan GT-R Protective Skid Plate – Final Development
May 11, 2011
One of the more popular products we make for the Nissan GT-R has been the polyurethane Protective Skid Plate, and with the changes to the new 2012 GT-R’s front lip, this required a new skid plate to be designed. Proud to announce we are in final development of the new version for the new model!
Here’s a sneak peek inside the STILLEN modeling shop located in Costa Mesa, CA, and shows the final piece test fitted on the car before we sent it into mold preparation. The final production part will be black urethane, sprayed with a black matte paint, and can also easily be painted to match any specific color if desired. Read more
Facebook Giveaway: New Goodridge Phantom Gstop Brakelines!
April 6, 2011
Last month we brought you the information on the new high end Goodridge Phantom Gstop Brakelines, and as these are arriving soon, we wanted to get the word out, and get these in the hands of our customers, so we’re giving away 2 sets for free!
Simply head over to the STILLEN Facebook page, give us a ‘Like’ and you’ll have access to the entry form on the Sweepstakes tab, just pop in your information and you’ll be entered to win. We’ll be picking a winner on April 15th, and again on April 30th!
The Phantom Brakelines are new from Goodridge, and are designed to replace the factory rubber brake lines on your car, improving safety, reducing stopping distances and deliver a much better brake pedal feel, just like the popular Goodridge Gstop Brakeline kits. The Phantom series upgrades the hardware and fittings to stainless steel, features a black coating on the stainless steel lines, a beautiful upgrade, and we couldn’t encourage our customers more to consider upgrading your brake lines if you haven’t already, it’s an inexpensive upgrade that has huge benefits.
Good luck! You can read the full giveaway rules here.
Limited Edition Goodridge Phantom Gstop Brake Lines
March 4, 2011
Goodridge has released information on their new limited edition Phantom Gstop Brakeline kits available for popular selected applications. For the ultimate brake line upgrade, look no further!
Upgraded stainless steel brake lines are one of the easiest modifications to make and get tangible results from. Installing Goodridge G-Stop SS lines will dramatically improve brake pedal feel, eliminate the soft spongy feeling, and improve braking performance and reducing stopping distances.
The Phantom G-Stop kits take that performance and kick it up a notch, utilizing stainless hose ends, banjos and bolts, as well as feature black poly-coating to the stainless steel hoses. Even the brackets and hardware are protective coated, creating a superior appearance, and ensuring durability. Read more
STILLEN Releases 16.1″ AP Racing Brake Kit for GM 2500/3500 Trucks
November 19, 2010
News Release
For Immediate Release
STILLEN OFFERS RUGGED AP RACING BRAKE UPGRADE
FOR 2000-2010 GM 2500/3500 TRUCKS
Costa Mesa, Calif.– STILLEN announces the availability of a new front and rear big brake system for the 2000-2010 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 and GMC Sierra 2500/3500 (including Dual Rear Wheel models). This rugged, state-of-the-art brake upgrade is based on AP Racing brake technology, the number one choice for a wide range of professional race teams that compete at the highest levels (i.e. NASCAR, FORMULA 1).
Available from the STILLEN brake product division, these GM Truck brake upgrades Read more
STILLEN Releases Active Brake Cooling Package for R35 GT-R
August 12, 2010
After months of testing and road racing, STILLEN is proud to announce the availability of the first Active Brake Cooling Package made specifically for the R35 Nissan GT-R. This kit has been shown to reduce rotor temperature on the AP Racing Carbon Ceramic Brake Upgrade by over 200 degrees F, and is also extremely effective for those running standard OEM Iron, or the AP Racing Curved Vane Rotor Upgrades.
GT-R Front Active Brake Cooling System
The front cooling kit consists of weather resistant electric fans, polyurethane air diversion splitter, all appropriate mounting brackets, and includes a wiring kit as well as a switch. Read more
Truckin’ Magazine Tests AP Racing Big Brake Kit on Track
August 10, 2010
We recently worked with Truckin’ Magazine on some high speed brake testing, putting the AP Racing BBK designed by STILLEN to the ultimate test at El Toro Marine Base.
Truckin’ editor Dan Ward pushed their 2004 GMC Sierra “Project Novakane” to the limit with repeated 80-0 mph stops beginning with the factory setup, swapped brake systems, and repeated the aggressive testing on the truck after outfitting the AP Racing setup onto the truck. Read more
AP Racing Big Brake System for 2008-2010 BMW M3 (E9x)
May 24, 2010
News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STILLEN OFFERS NEW AP RACING
2008-2010 BMW M3 (E9x)
FRONT AND REAR BIG BRAKE KITS
Features innovative Strap Drive System for road and track day applications
Costa Mesa, Calif. – AP Racing, the braking technology choice of professional race teams worldwide (including Rahal Letterman IMSA ALMS GT2 M3, BMW Motorsports FIA GT2 M3, etc), has introduced front and rear Big Brake System for the 2008-2010 BMW M3 (E9x). Available from the Brake Pros product division of STILLEN, these new brake upgrades fit most 18″ and 19″ OE wheels. They are compatible with OE ABS, traction control, stability systems and factory brake master cylinder. Read more
TheSmokingTire.com Video Tour Behind The Scenes At STILLEN
January 14, 2010
A little while back we had a chance to meet up with Matt Farah and his awesome crew from TheSmokingTire.com and show them around the buildings here at STILLEN.
Matt and Steve then jumped in the bright orange STILLEN GT-R and took a run through some of the local canyons. See below for the video! Read more
Technology Spotlight: AP Racing Strap Drive Brake Rotors
January 7, 2010
This Strap Drive System has been developed by AP Racing both for Road and Race applications. The standard fitment brake discs on many performance cars can suffer from brake vibrations caused by disc distortion. This generally occurs on fast road and track installations.
On many performance cars the typical standard brake disc will be a heavy duty ventilated single piece casting. Couple this type of rigid disc to a standard hub and wheel bearing and the result is any hub distortion / run out will transfer onto the disc brake faces. This eventually results in brake vibrations, usually picked up through the steering wheel.
The AP Racing Strap Drive System offers a new take on the floating systems already in the market place. Strap Drive uses a series of stainless steel straps to locate the disc to the mounting bell, producing a flexible coupling between the hub and the disc faces. This allows the disc to run true in the caliper under all conditions and also permits the disc to expand and contract without being restricted. Read more
