Stock brake systems are designed for stock cars. Whenever you change the total vehicle weight or the distribution of that weight, raise or lower the center of gravity, install “big ’n’ little” rubber, or drive down the racetrack, the design specs of the factory system may be exceeded. Many times, the system can be adjusted to compensate. But sometimes the only solution is to modify or custom-build a braking system that is fine-tuned for the particular application. To accomplish this, you need to determine both the vehicle’s actual braking requirements and whether a given disc/caliper combo is capable of fulfilling those requirements. The master-cylinder and brake-pedal assembly in turn must be able to supply sufficient volume and pressure to support the calipers and rotors. Brake system design is not based on magical formulas, but on sound scientific principles. Although we car crafters often consider brakes merely an afterthought, as power goes up, so must brake capability. And to realize the full potential of improved brakes, the suspension, wheel, and tire combo must also be up to the job.
