Brakes: autocross and icemode, input appreciated
 

So let's talk brakes for a sec, this isn't a "what pad is best for xx thread".

First off I'd like to stay with Carbotech since I like the interchangeability of the pad compounds (I do track the car). But I'll go a different brand if I have to. I previously autocrossed both an s2k and an e36m3 repeatedly on CTXP10's with zero ABS issues.

I run the XP10/8 combo at the track and I've never had failure there. But I'm also braking a bit smoother as I only run Time Trials and I'm very much a fan of bringing my car home in one piece.. so competition threshold braking isn't something I have to do. I also assume that moderate braking coupled with speedy straights (allowing extra cooling) helps as well.

In my local autocross I'm chasing two national champs in STU; I'm braking as hard and as late as possible (and when not icemoding) trailing into the corners to try and get that extra time.

God I LOVE how I can get the car to stop on the XP10/8 combo on RE71's.. until it icemodes, that is. I tried the CT AX6 pads and they actually tripped the problem quicker (I imagine due to the insane initial bite). I ran the latter half of the season on the 1521's. While they aren't bad, they definitely won't stop the car like the XP's. But I never experienced an issue with two drivers for each session and multiple back to back runs and hotlaps in the summer heat. I've had others able to recreate the issue with my car, one of which is a CT vendor and another that is a CAM-S National Champ. And of course a 350z driver that says his car "doesn't do stupid **** like this".

So am I screwed here? I read previously that someone may have had luck running XP8's squared.. but I really don't want to waste another $200+ to add to my collection of brake pads sitting on the shelf. I'm going to call Carbotech later this week and see what they think.

Any advice is appreciated.

Ice mode is usually caused by the pad bite being more aggressive than the tire. Instead of stabbing the brake pedal, try a firm, and deliberate push so the tires aren't getting shocked by the weight transition and initializing abs. When ice mode does occur, release the brake and reapply quickly. It usually clears the issue. I usually run Sebring with some very fast straights and at times have been standing on the brakes. I'm really thinking it's that initial stab of the brake that triggers it.

With that being said. Don't move to a 12/10 unless you're running competition tires. a 12/10 will make ice mode worse if the tires aren't up to snuff.

I ran the XP10/8 combo for a couple years on my BSP car and never really had icemode issues when I was driving. With that said, a past national champ jumped in my car and had fits with icemode. It really does come down to braking style.

fwiw I no longer run the XP10/8 combo and instead run Ferrodo DS2500's front and rear. on the BSP car now. The Ferrodo pads have a much better overall feel. The carbotech's were just way too bitey.

sub'd. :driving:

Good brake input-
https://driver61.com/wp-content/uplo...king-Trace.jpg

Not good brake input-
https://driver61.com/wp-content/uplo...rner-Graph.jpg

With sharp input transitions, sudden weight transfer, and the initial bite of the brakes the car panics.

Tell your car your going to brake by quickly but smoothly transitioning giving time to transfer weight to the front and you and your car will be happy. It's not an easy thing to do with so much going on in a turn.

Credit to: https://driver61.com/uni/corner-phases/

That's the way I was taught. :driving:

This is one thing I've always worried about. I'll be doing my first beginner event next sunday. I'm running EBC redstuff all around with z1 slotted front rotors and OEM rear rotors. I'm running a pretty cheap tire compound (Achilles) since its my first event. I'm betting my money I'll see some "ice mode" kick in. :crying:

[At least for autox] icemode isn't a worry, it's just annoying as it becomes impossible to set a mark for consistency. If it starts to act up reapplying the brakes once or sometimes twice will quickly clears it.

Never stomp the brake pedal. Quickly increase pressure on the pedal. When you stomp the brakes. You unload the rear tires, and overload the front tires. This will get you in trouble. Same with the loud pedal. Smooth=fast. :driving: