I'm going to do my suspension soon, and thought I might do my rear brakes while I'm at it. They've been shaking when braking for a while. I figured I'd replace the rotors to get a nice look that won't rust after it rains. I'm planning on Powerslot slotted rotors. www.competitionwarehouseusa.com seems to have good prices, and free shipping. I'll eventually replace the fronts also, and probably go with Hawk HPS pads. Since they don't make those pads for the rear, I'm thinking about getting something like Raybestos Quiet Stop. My primary concern is less chance of noise. Any concerns or other recommendations about this setup?
As far as stopping power goes, I need an explanation. My car doesn't have ABS, and it is fairly easy to lock up the front wheels (at least with the way I drive ). Comparing different brake pads with different compositions on a given rotor, is it (and if, how) possible for one pad to provide more stopping power than another if both can lock up the wheels? I mean, if my current pads can provide enough power to lock the wheels up, could another pad possibly provide more power? Please enlighten me.

 

The shake while you brake comes from your front rotors, not your rear rotors.

 

Are you sure? Here's the history: A few months ago, I had a shake. I had the front brakes done, including turning the rotors. The shake continued. Also, when you apply the parking brake while moving, it shakes.

 

No kidding? Well thats the first time I've ever heard of the rears warping like that. You can have them cut once too ya know.

 

Yeah, just thought I'd get some nice shiny ones while I'm at it .

 

Okay, this is what I think. I could be wrong though. Regardless of pads you use, if the wheels lock up then it pretty much provides the same amount of stopping force because frictional force skidding is less than frictional force not skidding. However, brake pads with better bite will probably lock up the wheels easier. The difference that you will get from a better brake pad will only be when you don't slam on the brakes and lock the wheel up. Then, stopping power would probably be better.

I've heard Greenstuff brake pads are pretty good. You can get them on tirerack.com.

Anyway... I think what I said makes sense... goodluck choosing.