Tags Posts tagged with "STILLEN"

STILLEN

Super Duty Adjustability

Lead

ICON Vehicle Dynamics Coilover Conversion Kit for 2005+ Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty

ICON Vehicle Dynamics invests countless hours of in-house research and development, along with thousands of miles of on and off-road testing in order for its engineers to cultivate a thorough understanding of each development platform. Thus, ICON’s engineers lead the industry when it comes to Ford Super Duty performance suspension systems, shock absorbers and their true capabilities. The latest addition to the ICON Vehicle Dynamics line of Ford Super Duty products includes a collection of 2.5-inch Remote Reservoir Bolt-In Coilover Conversion Kits that add a new level of performance and adjustability to the 2005+ F-250 and F-350 platform.

ICON Parts

The advantage of a coilover conversion kit is that it’s designed to increase the overall damping ability of the vehicle while allowing for user-defined ride height adjustment. The 2.5-inch Remote Reservoir Coilover Dampers featured in these kits are based on ICON’s 2.5 VS Series shock line, which means that Eibach coil springs, FK Rod End bearings and vehicle-specific valving come standard. Quality machined components and a fully serviceable design make for a product that will withstand the test of time yet retain the ability to be rebuilt or revalved as necessary. ICON’s CDC (Compression Damping Control) Valve option adds to the adjustability of these coilover conversion kits, allowing the end-user to adjust the dampening characteristics of the vehicle with the turn of a knob.

ICON Parts Installed
These new 2.5-inch Remote Reservoir Bolt-In Coilover Conversion Kits are available for 2005 and newer Super Duty F-250 and F-350 4WD trucks. Available lift ranges include 2.5-3-inch (Part #61720, 61720C) as well as 4-5.5-inch (Part #61721, 61721C). Each kit is available as an individual component that can be used in place of the ICON 2.5- and 4.5-inch Dual Rate Front Coil Spring Kits, or as a part of several staged systems that have been added to ICON’s line of Ford Super Duty products (contact STILLEN for more information.)

ICON Parts 2
ICON products proudly manufactures its suspension systems in the USA at its Southern California-based facility by a team of passionate off-road enthusiasts. With a reputation for quality, performance, and service, ICON Vehicle Dynamics is the top choice for Ford Super Duty suspension systems and shock absorbers.

KEY FEATURES

  • Bolt-in system fits in OE coil bucket location
  • Ride height adjustable coilovers (2.5-3-inch, 4-5.5-inch)
  • Decreased body roll and improved on and off-road ride dynamics
  • Vehicle-specific shock valving provides unparalleled ride quality and control
  • Shocks are fully rebuildable and revalveable
  • Coil-over conversion allows for the addition of secondary shocks
  • Corrosion-resistant CAD-plated coilover shock body with 7/8-inch shaft
  • Eibach Coil Springs are guaranteed for life against sagging or breakage
  • FK Rod End spherical bearings offer extended longevity and minimal deflection
  • CDCV technology allows for quick and easy compression damping adjustment (optional)
  • Made in the USA

To order or if you have any additional questions, please feel free to give us a call (866-250-5542), shoot us an email (sales@stillen.com) or reach out to us on Live Chat at STILLEN.com.

K&N  Uncovers More Horsepower from the 2016 Camaro SS 6.2L

KN Camaro Intake Clipped

 

Chevrolet’s Generation V 6.2-liter small block V8 provides the 2016 Camaro SS with immense performance and surprising efficiency. The push rod, two valve-per-cylinder LT1 V8 generates 455 horsepower. It is similar to the LS family of small-block engines but features a unique aluminum block casting and cylinder heads, oiling system and an aggressive 11.5:1 compression ratio. It also incorporates advanced technologies such as direct fuel Injection and continuously variable valve timing.

Logo

 

An entirely new intake manifold design was developed to provide a straighter path into the combustion chamber. Although GM engineers invested in the development of the LT1 there is still room for improvement. K&N developed its AirCharger air intake system (p/n) 69-4534TP  for the SS to significantly improve incoming air flow as well as reduce turbulence in the intake tube. This intake has been chassis dyno-tested to deliver an estimated 15.16 horsepower gain over stock and can be installed in 90 minutes or less with simple hand tools. In addition to more power, this air intake system improves engine sound with a more aggressive and deeper tone during acceleration.

The air intake includes a chrome capped K&N high-flow air filter within a heat shield that replaces the original airbox space. The oversized conical air filter is manufactured from multiple layers of oiled cotton filter media, which offers less resistance than traditional paper filters. Air then passes through an aerodynamically-verified polished aluminum intake tube into the engine’s throttle body. The intake tube includes fittings for the factory mass air flow sensor and crank case vent hose.

KN Camaro Intake Installed

The only maintenance is a service you can do yourself at intervals of 100,000 miles (depending upon your driving conditions) using the K&N 99-5000 recharger kit to clean and refresh your air filter in preparation for another 100,000 miles of driving. This filter is designed to last for the lifetime of your vehicle, which K&N guarantees will perform for up to 10 years or 1,000,000 miles without requiring replacement.

The K&N 69-4534TP cold air intake is designed for both the 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS 6.2-liter V8.

 

STILLEN Vendor Spotlight: Edelbrock is Rolling Back the Numbers

Edelbrock Logo

Who wouldn’t be excited to see lowered pricing? Well, the largest chain of discount super stores aren’t the only ones that roll back prices! Edelbrock announced a price reduction on select Edelbrock E Force Supercharger kits, making these forced induction solutions even more attainable. The discounted kits include:

1598

Part #          Application

1580            2005-09 Ford Mustang 4.6L Stage 1 w/ Tuner

15800         2005-09 Ford Mustang 4.6L Stage 1 w/0 Tuner

1534            2011-14 Chrysler LX & LC 5.7L HEMI w/ Tuner

15340          2011-14 Chrysler LX & LC 5.7L HEMI w/o Tuner

1598            2010-13 Chevy Camaro 6.2L LS3 w/ Tuner

15980         2010-13 Chevy Camaro 6.2L LS3 w/o Tuner

1597             2010-13 Chevy Camaro 6.2L L99 w/ Tuner

15970          2010-13 Chevy Camaro 6.2L L99 w/o Tuner

1586            2015 Ford Mustang 5.0L w/ Tuner

15860         2015 Ford Mustang 5.0L w/o Tuner

 

WD Price List_No Prices

Edelbrock designed its supercharger kits around Eaton TVS R2300 and TVS R2650 positive displacement blowers. Each kit is a complete system with tuning software for a turn-key boost solution. For customers desiring custom calibration by way of a stand-alone engine managment system or a third party tuning software, these kits are also available without tuning software.

41144

Its time to add boost pressure to your ride! For more information about Edelbrock E-Force Superchargers or to place your order, contact STILLEN today! You can call us at 866-250-5542, send us an email to sales@stillen.com, or you can hit us up on Live Chat at stillen.com!

STILLEN Event Tracking

IMG_4269_edited

Formula Drift Round 1: The Streets of Long Beach

April 1, 2017

By Richard Fong

IMG_4074_edited

On the streets of Long Beach, April 1st was no Fool’s Day. Drivers waged fierce battles in the first round of the Formula Drift Championship, leaving no room for anyone faint of heart or too timid to push beyond the limit.

 

Now in its fourteenth year, Formula Drift kicked off the 2017 season on a moderate spring day in Long Beach. The weather could not have been more conducive for a day of tire-smoking fun and enjoyment for all. Attendees could walk through the competitor pits while also checking out the expanded vendor row that occupied the area adjacent to the pits as well as the infield behind the bleachers with the AutoCon Car Show.

IMG_4255_edited

Bye, Bye, Bye

As fans of drifting, we were bummed about the number of bye runs that kicked off the Top 32 eliminations. The top five drivers enjoyed automatic advances into the sweet 16 round for a couple of reasons. First, the usual attrition that comes with drifting, K-rails and tire barriers and, second, a reduction in the number of qualified drivers on the Pro roster. There just weren’t enough to fill a field of 32. We are hopeful that more drivers will see the opportunity to compete and fill the driver list in the near future.

IMG_3133_edited

Upsets Abound

Despite the number of bye runs, the 2017 season kicked off with a shake-up of the norm as numerous upsets throughout the eliminations by up-and-coming drivers sidelined veterans and champions alike. Top qualifier Vaughn Gittin Jr. faced elimination in the Top 16 round at the hands of Dean “Karnage” Kearney.

IMG_2925_edited

Former champions Dai Yoshihara and Michael Essa faced off in the first round. Yoshihara suffered an unfortunate mishap when he snapped a power steering belt just before finishing turn 10. This caused him to straighten out and almost collide with the K-rail, suffering a loss.

IMG_4450_edited

The 2015 champion Fredric Aasbo competed in his new Toyota Corolla iM drift car as if he’d been driving it for years. After his first round bye run, he beat Kristaps Bluss to move on to the Great 8 against Alex Heilbrunn. Heilbrunn also enjoyed a first round bye before beating Juha Rintanen to advance to his match up with Aasbo. Heilbrunn upset the Norwegian Hammer and advanced to the Final 4.

IMG_4004_edited

Three-time champion Chris Forsberg defeated Alec Hohnadell in the first round before facing Ken Gushi in a too-close-to-call second match. Forsberg and Gushi delivered a great battle that many felt could have gone for a one-more-time rebattle, but the judges ruled in Forsberg’s favor to the dismay of the crowd, who chanted a chorus of “One-More-Time” as the judges’ decision was posted on the Jumbotron. Forsberg faced elimination by the number two qualifier, James Deane in the Great 8. Deane enjoyed a bye run before defeating Essa on his way to face Forsberg. Deane’s victory over Forsberg put him into the Final 4.

IMG_4617_edited

First Time Finalists

Bakchis has competed for seven years and podiumed six times, while Tuerck has thirteen years in Formula Drift competition and twelve podiums to his credit, according to driftstats.com. By comparison, Heilbrunn has just one year in Formula Drift Pro2 and one year in the Pro Championship. Deane competed at four rounds of Formula Drift competition back in 2010 and returned for the first time since to compete in the USA at Long Beach. Bakchis paired with Heilbrunn while Tuerck matched up with Deane.  The sophomore drivers each prevailed, putting both into the finals for the first time. When the smoke cleared and the contenders lined up in front of the grandstands, the judges awarded James Deane his first Formula Drift event victory as Heilbrunn proudly claimed his first podium as runner up. Since Tuerck qualified higher than Bakchis, he was awarded third spot on the podium.

IMG_4667_edited

With the first round in the books, Formula Drift and its roster of drivers prepare to make the trek across the US of A to Round 2 at Orlando Speed World. On the weekend of April 28-29, the state of Florida will feel the thunder as both the Pro and Pro2 divisions lay down rubber to the tarmac. This season is already shaping up to be an exciting one so be sure to keep your eyes focused on the Formula Drift Championship!

AutoCon LA 2017

E16A6312

March 25, 2017

Images Courtesy of Tyler Lee @ CarNinja

 

E16A6413

The Los Angeles Convention Center hosts some of the most epic automotive events in the nation. On March 25, 2017, AutoCon filled the halls with a few of the finest machines from across the country. Crowds came in droves, lining up outside the convention hall for hours, waiting for their chance to file into the grand halls of the Convention Center. For an event held on a Sunday afternoon from 1pm-to-8pm, thousands of attendees waited in lines that snaked all the way out the front of the convention hall as interest in the event and the excitement of anticipation built up to a fever pitch.

E16A6520

Once inside, the fans were greeted by a balanced presentation of high quality vehicle builds ranging from vintage rides and domestic muscle to aggressive imports and European exotics. AutoCon attracts a strong following of quality builds, ensuring that everyone in attendance experiences the finest in vehicle construction. There was no shortage of eye candy and inspiration for the car lover in us all.

E16A6503

E16A6391

E16A6415

Slammed chassis, custom paint, aggressive aerodynamics and numerous engine swaps could be found throughout the vast convention halls. Eye catching machines showcased the latest trends and delivered a good idea of what is popular in the scene. The bolt-on overfender styling of Rocket Bunny, Liberty Walk and RAUH-Welt BEGRIFF (RWB) continues its foothold in the scene as platforms ranging from the accessible FR-S/BRZ up to the more exotic GT-Rs and Ferraris featured wide over fenders and aggressively offset wheels.

E16A6377

E16A6512

E16A6477

E16A6508

E16A6526

The “slammed and stanced” trend continued as some machines had so much negative camber that the car was rolling on its inner side walls while the outer shoulder of the tires never touched the pavement. Note the daylight shining through?

E16A6375

Honda chose this particular venue, rather than a traditional main-stream auto show like Detroit or Los Angeles to debut its entry in the hot hatch category: the 2017 Civic Type-R. This machine just captured the FWD track record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife Circuit from the previous record holder, the Volkswagen GTI Clubsport, with a lap time of 7 minutes 43.8 seconds. (Check out the latest video on YouTube)

E16A6491

As the night drew to a close, the grand exodus of these machines formed a procession of horsepower leading out of the halls and onto Downtown Los Angeles’ streets, a sight to truly behold. We can hardly wait for next year.

E16A6479

 

E16A6401

E16A6487

E16A6364

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed

By Richard Fong

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed stillen_u_banner_v1

It’s no secret that brakes serve an important role from the standpoint of both performance as well as safety. After all, the typical street vehicle (cars, motorcycles, etc.) generates approximately 80-percent of stopping power from its front brakes. In Brake Systems 101, we covered some of the basics of braking, focusing on pads and rotors. Brake Systems 201 put emphasis on two-piece rotors as well as stainless-steel braided lines and higher performance brake fluids. The third installment, Brake Systems 301, introduced one component of the Big Brake System, larger rotors, which increases the heat capacity and friction surface area relative to stock. Now we’re going to look at the visual and functional star of the big brake kit, the brake caliper.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9721 edited

Applying Pressure

Brake calipers serve one purpose, to squeeze the pads against the rotor to generate friction, shave speed and eventually bring the vehicle to a stop. Calipers come in a variety of types, configurations and sizes. One of the most common factory caliper types is the sliding caliper, where one or more pistons press against the inboard brake pad, while the brake caliper housing slides inward, pulling on the outer pad to equalize the pressure to both sides of the rotor. Automakers often favor this type of caliper for its low cost and satisfactory stopping performance on the street. Unfortunately, these calipers suffer from excessive deflection under performance conditions and contribute to less than ideal braking performance. By contrast, fixed or opposed calipers, as the name implies, do not slide or move. There are an equal number of pistons that press on the pads isometrically to ensure equal pressure is applied to both sides for even wear.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9716_edited

Bigger Rotors, Bigger Calipers

Increasing the heat capacity and the friction surface area by way of larger rotors prompts the use of correspondingly larger calipers. Upgrading to larger brake calipers and the use of larger brake pads make best use of the increased area availed by larger rotors for improved stopping performance. Larger calipers also tend to employ multiple pistons to ensure even application of pressure to the backing plate of the larger pads as they generate friction with the rotor surface.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9702_edited

Pumped Up Pistons

The number and size of the pistons that a caliper employs is typically an indicator of the size of the calipers, pads and rotors. As rotors and pads get larger, so do the size of the calipers necessary to make use of the available friction surface. In order to evenly apply pressure to all of the available friction surface area, it becomes necessary to increase the number of pistons pressing on the pads. Sliding calipers employ a single, dual or even triple piston configuration, while fixed calipers feature an even number of pistons in an opposed configuration (pressing toward each other.)

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9695_edited

In an opposed, multi-piston caliper, the caliper body stays in a fixed location while the hydraulic fluid builds pressure behind the pistons and forces them to squeeze the pads to the rotor surface.

 

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed IMG_9586

Cast, Forged, One Piece, Two Piece

Calipers are not only defined by their size but also their construction. Calipers are included among the components of unsprung weight and are subjected to a variety of conditions such as extreme temperatures and pressures. Thus, caliper design must take several variables into consideration.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9741_edited

In the case of a single piston sliding caliper, the piston (red arrow) pushes on the inboard brake pad onto the rotor. The caliper body moves the opposite direction from the piston (green arrows) and pulls the outboard brake pad (blue arrows) onto the rotor surface.

The least sophisticated is the cast sliding caliper. Sliding calipers strike a balance of cost, weight and performance for the average streetcar. However, these calipers suffer from deflection and inadequate pressure under performance conditions, resulting in less than satisfactory results: Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9683_edited

The cast two-piece caliper features an opposed piston configuration that resists deflection while offering improved application of pressure to the brake pads. An even stiffer solution is the forged two-piece caliper. This fixed caliper shares similar design traits to its cast cousin, but benefits from being forged for greater strength and stiffness.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9688_edited

The stiffest and lightest solution, which also happens to be the most expensive, is the fixed, forged one-piece monoblock caliper. These tend to be machined from a forging of aluminum for strength and light weight. While offering the greatest performance, the cost to manufacture this type of brake caliper becomes cost prohibitive for all but the most well-funded of individuals or teams.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9724_edited - Copy

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9729_edited

Racing calipers are massive, stiff and look really cool. But they’re not for street use. Racing calipers must be rebuilt on a regular basis throughout the racing season. As you can see, they do not have dust boots covering the pistons. This could lead to failure if debris or other contaminants damage the seals. Street calipers do not require the same maintenance schedule as racing applications, making them ideal for street driven vehicles.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9734_edited

Piston Power

As mentioned earlier, calipers feature a greater number of pistons based on the size of the pads and the rotor. When increasing the pad and rotor size, applying equal pressure across the entire pad surface becomes essential for even application of pressure for optimal generation of friction. This can be achieved (up to a point) by way of larger pistons. When the caliper design calls for a lower profile to fit within the barrel of certain wheel sizes, adequate pad coverage can also be accomplished by way of additional pistons. Typical multi-piston configurations can range from four to six pistons with some designs employing up to as many as twelve pistons.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9705_edited

Bigger isn’t always Better

So, when four is good, six is better and twelve is fantastic, right? Not necessarily so. Optimizing your brake system depends on a myriad of variables, including purpose, vehicle weight and power output, to name a few. There is such a thing as overkill, and overkill on brakes could actually compromise other aspects of performance like handling and feel. Brakes fall under the category of unsprung weight, which has a direct effect on responsiveness and overall feel. This is why a smaller and lighter vehicle like a first generation (NA) Mazda Miata that weighs in at just over 2,000 pounds would not benefit from the massive factory six-piston, forged monoblock brakes engineered for the 3,800 pound Nissan R35 GT-R. Not only would the Miata have to run much larger wheels just to fit this brake system, it would be far too much brake for the fly-weight Miata. The nimble feel of the NA would also be lost due to unsprung weight gained at each corner. Conversely, the much heavier R35 GT-R would brake as if it were in the vacuum of space while trying to stop with the NA Miata’s diminutive braking system. Exaggerated examples aside, a properly sized brake upgrade can lend greatly to vehicle performance. The right combination can improve feel, heat capacity and longevity while mitigating detrimental side effects related to unsprung weight. Ultimately, the right brake system upgrade for your ride will complement the overall build as well as its appearance.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed IMG_3644

Sized Up: Brake Master Cylinder

Brake systems function on the mechanics of hydraulics, which is the use of fluid to perform mechanical force. In this case, the movement of the piston(s) in the calipers to apply pressure to the brake pads by displacing the pistons with brake fluid. The brake master cylinder forces fluid through the brake lines to each caliper to apply pressure to the pads. Since the amount of fluid displaced depends on the size and number of pistons, properly sizing the brake system includes evaluating the size of the brake master cylinder. When upgrading to a larger brake system, it is necessary to measure the displacement of the system to ensure that the brake master cylinder displaces enough fluid to deploy the pistons to press the pads against the rotor surface. Small bore brake master cylinders produce high pressure, while larger bore master cylinders deliver more volume.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed IMG_3642

Automakers go to painstaking lengths to properly size the brake master cylinder to the brake calipers they equip the vehicles with to ensure a balance of pedal feel and brake system performance. Properly sized, bolt-on brake systems should be designed to work with the factory master cylinder. If upgrading to significantly larger brakes, it is sometimes necessary to increase the size of the brake master cylinder to ensure that the feel and performance is not thrown out of balance.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed 3R1A9748

Science of Stopping

Properly-engineered brake system improvements ranging from the most basic pad and rotor upgrades to full Big Brake Kits will enhance the feel from behind the wheel while delivering longer sessions on twisty highways or quicker lap times. While horsepower will make your car faster, balancing that horsepower out with improved braking performance will help you navigate the streets and the track safely and, in record time.

Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed BMW

 


Find out what STILLEN has to offer to improve your brake system! Check out www.stillen.com and click through to the brake section. 


Best Brake Systems 401: Bigger Calipers Clamp Speed

Brake Rotors

Brake Pads

Big Brake Kits

Brake Fluid

Brake Lines

Got questions or ready to upgrade your brake system? Reach out to STILLEN at 866-250-5542, by email at sales@stillen.com, or via Live Chat at stillen.com!

STILLEN Event Tracking

3R1A9420 edited

Skyline Syndicate Launch Event

March 11, 2017

By Richard Fong

3R1A9406 edited 3R1A9414 edited

Ideal car meets are, at best, a fair weather experience. People lose interest quickly at the first sign of precipitation. When clear skies and warm temperatures are the first things to greet you as you walk out the front door, it’s a good bet that a great day and an even greater event await your arrival. This is especially true when the event is focused on the Nissan Skyline GT-R.

3R1A9462 edited

Skyline Syndicate, which started as a group of friends with a passion for all things Skyline, quickly gained momentum and evolved into a brand of its own. On Saturday March 11, a meet to celebrate Skyline Syndicate’s Launch Event took place in the City of Industry, California. With the support of the Purist Group, led by Sean Lee, this social media-promoted event drew import and European enthusiasts of all walks, in addition to the fortunate few that own Skylines.

3R1A9389 edited 3R1A9393 edited

Upon arrival, a walk through the parking lot gave attendees plenty to look at, including some gorgeous Supras, NSXs, BMWs and other desirable platforms. But the stars of the events were located close to the warehouse entrance. After passing a few R35 GT-Rs, we came upon a trio of R32 Skyline GT-Rs near the entrance to the warehouse.

3R1A9464 edited 3R1A9462 edited 3R1A9458 edited

Once inside the warehouse, a few more R32s along with a Stagea lined the walls leading up to the heritage row. Parked side-by-side, a triumvirate of Skylines (an R32, R33 and R34) was staged up on display. Near the loading docks, a NISMO equipped R33 was positioned next to TK Taka’s red Hakosuka.

3R1A9394 edited3R1A9396 edited3R1A9401edited

Although the event was scheduled to last from 10am to 3pm, the camaraderie, conversations and anecdotes kept some attendees at the event to well past 6pm. As the sun set on the event, the Skyline Syndicate enjoyed a great start to its brand. We can hardly wait for the next event!

3R1A9418 edited 3R1A9447 edited

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area

By Richard FongBest Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area stillen_u_banner_v1 (1)

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area Practice and experience lend to improving your driving skills. As you go faster and quicker, you will inevitably uncover more limitations of your vehicle’s hardware setup. In Brake Systems 101 and 201, we explored the basic bolt-on upgrades that help to improve initial bite, heat capacity and feel while retaining the stock calipers and rotor dimensions. However, even aftermarket upgrades have their limitations, especially when it comes to heat capacity, which leads to brake fade. This is where upgrading to a big brake kit could prove an effective solution.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area radi-cal-full-kit-1

Understanding Big Brake Kits

As had been mentioned before, the factory equipment on most vehicles are selected as a compromise of cost versus performance – meaning that the vehicle manufacturer will offer you a safely adequate braking system necessary for your vehicle within their targeted budget. This opens the door to aftermarket improvements, and a big brake kit usually rides high on the list of upgrades. However, contrary to popular belief, upgrading to a big brake kit is not for the sole purpose of shortening stopping distances. Its greater merit is increasing the heat capacity of the braking system. Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area increases the heat capacity of a braking system by incorporating larger rotors, larger pads and larger calipers. The increased surface area lends to greater heat capacity and an increased friction surface. (NOTE: Before investing in a big brake kit, consider the wheel size you are running, as some kits might require specific wheel sizing and offset to clear the rotor diameter and the larger brake calipers. Contact STILLEN for more information.)

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area AP7500

Physics of Braking

Braking is the conversion of kinetic energy (motion) into heat (and stopping power) by way of friction generated between the brake pads and the brake rotor surface. Put simply, the greater the friction produced, the greater the stopping power. However, with more friction comes more heat. While certain pad compounds thrive in specific operating temperature ranges, the collective brake system also has particular temperature requirements. Individual systems begin to fall short once their optimal temperature range has been exceeded. Increasing the temperature capacity by way of fluid upgrades and rotor cooling strategies are logical first steps. To take upgrades a step further, increasing the heat capacity by way of larger rotors and correspondingly larger calipers and pads add to the available rotor surface area and the size of the pads that can be used to generate friction.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area art_shop_v2

A Big Brake Kit not only benefits from increased friction surface area and greater heat capacity, it also benefits from a greater moment of torque.

Get More Torque From Your Brake System

Increasing the heat capacity and applying more friction are just two of the benefits that a big brake kit offers. Another important benefit comes in the form of increased torque. The application of torque is a matter of leverage. In the same way that increasing the amount of leverage by way of a breaker bar (torque arm) helps to increase the torque applied (moment of torque) to a bolt or nut, the same principle applies when increasing the rotor diameter and caliper size. Increasing the diameter of the rotor increases the torque arm and subsequently increases the moment of torque for braking. This is one of the significant advantages that a big brake kit has over a factory brake system.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area GTR_Vane_CutawayWeb450

Rotor Designs

Most vehicles come equipped with vented rotors up front, which help to facilitate cooling of the rotors in order to mitigate the potential for brake fade. A variety of vent types (radial, pillar and directional) have been developed in the pursuit of efficient rotor cooling.

 

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area KP_STRAIGHT

The Disc Brakes Australia proprietary “Kangaroo Paw” pillar design (left) compared to a typical radial vent design (right).

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area DBA

As mentioned in Brake Systems 101, the various brake pad compounds deliver varying levels of endurance, initial bite and resistance to heat. Pads designed for the street require little warm up and offer great initial bite, but sacrifice braking performance (reduction in friction under conditions of excessive braking and heat build up) when subjected to an endurance or heavy use situation. By contrast, an endurance race pad can take a lot of heat while maintaining optimal friction, but they must be heated to racing temperatures before becoming effective, which is unlikely to be achieved during normal street driving. Somewhere in between, there are pads that offer a balance of performance and endurance that suit a wider variety of driving situations.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area 3R1A9572 Edited 2

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area 3R1A9595 Edited 2

Exotic Materials – STILLEN CCM-X Brake Upgrade

Technology and space-age materials have enhanced our world in many ways. When it comes to stopping, STILLEN and AP Racing have worked together to improve on the heavy yet nimble, Nissan R35 GT-R. Their efforts led to the development of the high thermal capacity (HTC) Carbon Ceramic Matrix brake rotor (CCM-X) that offers superior heat capacity compared to its iron counterpart. Once found only in the world’s most exotic sportscars, this is the first CCM rotor offering for a production tuner vehicle. In addition, STILLEN worked with Pagid to formulate its RSX1 pad material to offer easy bedding and greater performance for both street and track applications. During extreme performance testing at Auto Club Speedway, the HTC CCM-X rotors and RSX1 pads proved to run 142F cooler than previous generations of CCM rotors (1,346F vs. 1,488F), which validated the test results recorded on the brake dyno at AP Racing’s facilities in Coventry, England.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area 3R1A9595 Zoomed 2

At the Limit

At this point the question is, how do you know when you’ve reached your brake system’s heat capacity? Since the friction between the pads and the rotor generates heat, this heat transfers into the components of the brake system (rotors, pads, calipers and brake fluid.)  If you’ve upgraded these basic brake system components with aftermarket components (as outlined in Brake Systems 101 and 201) and are still experiencing unresponsive braking and/or a spongy pedal feel after aggressive driving, you’ve likely reached the heat capacity of the brake system. This condition is referred to as brake fade.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area IMG_2100

Don’t Get Faded

Brake fade occurs because the heat generated by the friction between the pads and the rotor has built up to the point that the pads are no longer able to create friction with the rotors (unresponsive braking) or pockets of air have formed in the brake lines due to brake fluid boiling (spongy pedal feel.) In both situations, heat is the culprit, which drives home the value of cooling the brake system. While adding brake ducts that direct air to the calipers and rotors certainly helps to facilitate cooling, increasing the amount of surface area available offers greater heat capacity and an increased friction surface area for use with larger brake pads and calipers.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area IMG_0501

 More Surface Area

Generally speaking, improving a brake system’s heat capacity typically requires more iron and thus, larger rotors. Larger rotors offer more material to absorb and dissipate heat, as well as a larger friction area for a larger brake pad to be employed. This is also why larger calipers are an integral part of the big brake kit (to be covered in Brake Systems 401). By increasing the amount of friction surface, more heat can be stored before reaching temperatures that cause fade. The increased heat capacity also increases the usable range brake pads have that would not have been practical on a lower heat capacity setup.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area IMG_0903

Mechanical Grip Improves Braking

While increasing the size of the brake calipers, pads and rotors inevitably improves the heat capacity and overall brake performance, a brake system is limited by another factor, mechanical grip. Mechanical grip refers to the tires, the only thing between your vehicle and the pavement, ground or terrain. In the case of road vehicles, the brake system’s ability to slow and stop a vehicle depends heavily on the tires. A vehicle with worn or inappropriate tires (i.e. endurance tires being used at a track day, rain tires when its dry, etc.) will not perform optimally compared to one fitted with tires suited to the purpose at hand.

Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface AreaIMG_0901

Continuing on the subject of big brake kits, the next issue of STILLEN University, Brake Systems 401, will go into caliper sizing and selection along with the mechanics of how they work. Do you need a 4-piston or 6-piston caliper? Is bigger always better? Check back with us soon!


Check out some of the available Best Brake Systems 301: Torque Friction Surface Area brake rotor and pad upgrades available at www.stillen.com!

STILLEN Sport Brake Rotors

Disc Brakes Australia

AP Racing By STILLEN

STILLEN Brake Pads

Hawk Performance Brake Pads

Ferodo Brake Pads

Mintex Brake Pads

Pagid Brake Pads


Got questions or ready to upgrade your brake system? Reach out to STILLEN :
866-250-5542
sales@stillen.com
Live Chat
stillen.com!

 

 

Toyota Tundra Leveling KIt and Exhaust Installed

Toyota Tundra ReadyLift Leveling Kit and Magnaflow Cat-back Exhaust Installed

Here at the STILLEN performance shop, we’ve just finished installing a ReadyLift 3″ Leveling Kit and Magnaflow Cat-back Exhaust System for a customer’s 2013 Toyota Tundra with TRD Package. These two bolt-on mods took this already great looking TRD Tundra and transformed the look and sound while retaining the stock ride and gaining a little more horsepower to the 5.7L V8.


Toyota Tundra Magnaflow Exhaust

2013 Toyota Tundra Magnaflow Cat-back Exhaust System Installed

2013 Toyota Tundra Magnaflow Cat-back Exhaust System
The customer opted for the Magnaflow Off Road Pro Series Cat-back Exhaust that turns down under the bed in front of the rear tire. This Tundra Exhuast is mandrel bent, 2.5″ single tubing with a 3″ turndown tip. The 100% stainless steel Magnaflow Exhaust is dyno tested and has proven performance gains in horsepower and torque, which also carries a lifetime warranty. This great sounding exhaust has a smooth, deep tone and is built to last.

magnaflow exhaust 17111


Toyota Tundra ReadyLift Leveling Kit

Toyota Tundra ReadyLift Leveling Kit Installed

2013 Toyota Tundra ReadyLift 3″ Leveling Kit
The 2013 Toyota Tundra ReadyLift strut extension provides 3.0” of front lift and creates a “prerunner” stance with the front end sitting slightly higher than the rear, which also allows for a larger tire size upgrade if preferred. The ReadyLift 3″ Leveling Kit for the 2013 Toyota Tundra also carries a lifetime warranty.

2013 Toyota Tundra ReadyLift 3" Leveling Kit

Toyota Tundra Leveling KIt and Exhaust Installed

2013 Toyota Tundra Magnaflow Cat-back Exhaust System
2013 Toyota Tundra ReadyLift 3″ Leveling Kit

STILLEN Event TrackingIMG_1986

Boost Festival 2017 by Honeywell Garrett

February  25, 2017

By Richard Fong

 

IMG_2047

Only the excitement of going to the track can get me up at 5am with enthusiasm. The STILLEN crew rose before the sun to make the trek out to Willow Springs International Raceway for the Boost Festival 2017 by Honeywell Garrett event. This multi-faceted event was run in conjunction with Global Time Attack, Just Drift and Drift 101. For the time attack fans, GTA conducted its first round for 2017 on the Streets of Willow, while JustDrift took over the Horse Thief Mile track where participants smoked some tires. For those interested in learning to drift or seeking to improve their drifting skills, class was in session at the Balcony as Drift 101 conducted lessons on how to get slideways.

IMG_2114

On Horse Thief Mile, JustDrift participants practiced drifting as Drift 101 instructed its students up at the Balcony.

IMG_1883

Global Time Attack Round 1 Results:

 

CLASS            Time               Driver                            #       Car                               Team

Unltd RWD     01:22.577      Hessam Toudiee           458   Ferrari 458 Italia      Rules of Traction

Unltd RWD     01:22.692     Jason Sharek                   63     Mercedes C63 AMG   Jason Sharek

Unltd RWD     01:22.988    Will Wattanawongkiri  107     BMW M3                    WWR Racing

Unltd RWD     01:36.505     Matt Perkins                   166    Honda S2000         Gryphon AutoLab

IMG_1601

Unltd FWD     01:28.789     Martin Gonzales            73      Infiniti G20               MotoIQ

IMG_1742

Unltd AWD     01:18.717     David Haagsma            422      Nissan GT-R            SP Engineering

 

CLASS            Time               Driver                            #       Car                               Team

Street RWD     01:23.617     Clement Kwong            6      Honda S2000            Raceline USA

Street RWD     01:24.531     Henry Lam                   29     Mazda RX7                lucky7racing

Street RWD     01:25.353     Karla Pestotnik           54      Honda S2000   Karla Pestotnik Racing

IMG_1632

Street FWD      01:29.177     Bradley Herrock         3       Honda Civic Si          Herrock Racing

Street FWD      01:29.193    Chris Hofmann         501     Chevrolet Cobalt LT    Foximus Motorsports

Street FWD      01:33.400   Jack Thomas               19       Fiat 500 Abarth   R1Concepts/Jolly Club

IMG_2000

Street AWD      01:20.637    Markos Mylonas       555     Subaru WRX                Snail Perf.

Street AWD      01:22.791    Johnny Hernandez    30      Subaru WRX STI         lido labs

Street AWD      01:26.028   Sally McNulty            412     Subaru WRX                Snail Perf.

Street AWD      01:26.540   Jaime Jacquez             51      Subaru WRX STI         Unleashed Racing

Street AWD      01:27.497   Cody Nicot                   44      Subaru Legacy GT       Nicot Racing

 

Pro/Comp        01:19.600   Richard Buckingham  28      Ariel Atom SRA          R. Buckingham

IMG_2122 Cropped

CLASS            Time               Driver                            #       Car                               Team

Ltd RWD         01:21.445      Ken Xu                         88       Mazda RX7            Diamond Hills Coll.

Ltd RWD         01:23.904     Joshua Haddox           20       BMW E90 M3            Racewerkz Eng.

Ltd RWD         01:25.297     Jon Rook/Ravi Tomerli  8    Acura NSX                  WDL Racing/SPN

Ltd RWD         01:25.402    Jerome Silvers            427      Chevy Camaro           Snail Perf.

Ltd RWD         01:27.652    Travis Barnes               24       Ford Mustang GT350  Snail Perf.

Ltd RWD         01:27.764    Michael Sutton            36         BMW M3                EDGE Motorworks

IMG_1614

Ltd AWD         01:19.445      Steven Chan              720      Nissan GT-R            RD Engineering

Ltd AWD         01:24.915      Alan Bidgoli               55        Nissan GT-R            Abiddyy

Ltd AWD         01:25.397      Nick Bright                  7         Subaru WRX STI    Prolific Auto

Ltd AWD         01:25.408      Daniel Albrecht        117       Subaru 2.5RS          Albrecht Racing

Ltd AWD         01:27.748       Scott Santellan          53       Lambo. Huracan   Caliber Customs

Ltd AWD         01:29.667       Lars Wolfe                23         VW Golf R               Lars Wolfe Racing

IMG_1651

CLASS            Time               Driver                            #       Car                               Team

Enth RWD      01:26.912       Hessam Toudiee         77      BMW M3                 Rules of Traction

Enth RWD      01:28.249       Mike Kang                  248     Subaru BRZ             CounterSpace Garage

Enth RWD      01:29.311       Ariel Salazar                5       Mazda Miata           SBGarage

Enth RWD      01:32.368       Giuseppe De Vivo      50      Alfa Romeo 4C        Caliber Customs

Enth RWD      01:32.650       Vincent Anatra          89      BMW M3                 Hoonigan

Enth RWD      01:37.391       Bret Nicoletti              10      Mazda Miata          Rooney Speed Racing

IMG_1689

Enth FWD      01:30.107       Efrain Flores            17       Ford Fiesta ST          FloresRacing

Enth FWD      01:31.373        Daniel Barker        805     Mazdaspeed 3            Durp Squad

IMG_1919

Enth AWD      01:28.190       Taylor Libolt          42        Subaru WRX STI         Libolt Racing

Enth AWD      01:29.294       Chris Hain             813       Subaru WRX                  Hain Racing

Enth AWD      01:30.091       Team Snail            124       Subaru Impreza 2.5RS    Snail Perf.

Enth AWD      01:35.564       Istvan Klag            214       Subaru WRX STI     Nightmotorsport