Power Stop K5303
Power Stop K5303 Rear Z23 Carbon Fiber Brake Pads with Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors Kit
Brand: Power Stop
Introduction
The Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Brake Upgrade Kit is designed to enhance the braking performance of daily-driver vehicles. This kit provides a comprehensive upgrade over standard brake systems, aiming to reduce brake dust and minimize noise for a more comfortable driving experience. It includes all necessary components for a complete brake job, engineered to work together for optimal performance.

Image: The complete Power Stop K5303 Rear Z23 Carbon Fiber Brake Kit, featuring drilled and slotted rotors, Z23 carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads, and associated hardware, all packaged together.
What's in the Box
Each Power Stop K5303 Rear Z23 Carbon Fiber Brake Kit includes the following components:
- 2 Drilled and slotted brake rotors
- Brake pad sets (for rear axle)
- Installation hardware kit
- High-performance ceramic brake lubricant

Image: A detailed view of all components included in the Power Stop K5303 kit, laid out for inspection, including rotors, pads, hardware, and lubricant.
Key Features
- Custom-Matched Components: Engineered to work together for superior braking power, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance for your daily-driver vehicle.
- Z23 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Formula: The brake pads feature a specialized carbon-fiber ceramic compound designed to provide dust-free braking performance, keeping wheels cleaner.

Image: Close-up of the Z23 carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads, emphasizing their composition for severe-duty stopping power with everyday drivability.
- Premium Rubberized Shims: Integrated rubberized shims contribute to virtually noise-free braking, enhancing driving comfort.

Image: A cutaway diagram showing the dual-layer rubberized shims, designed to insulate noise for silent braking.
- Drilled & Slotted Performance Rotors: Rotors are designed with precision drilling and slotting to maximize cooling, dissipate heat, and maintain consistent performance.

Image: A detailed view of a drilled and slotted rotor, illustrating the features that help keep temperatures down and performance up.
- Zinc Plated Rotors: Rotors are zinc plated for maximum protection against rust and corrosion, extending their lifespan and maintaining appearance.
- Premium Stainless Steel Hardware Kit: Includes high-quality stainless steel hardware for a straightforward and secure installation.

Image: Hands working on a brake assembly, demonstrating the installation of the premium stainless steel hardware kit.
- Vehicle Specific Fit: Designed for specific vehicle models (INFINITI G35 2003-2004, Nissan 350Z 2003-2008) ensuring a precise fit and optimal performance without modifications.
Installation Instructions
Installation of brake components requires mechanical knowledge and specialized tools. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a certified professional mechanic. Improper installation can lead to brake failure, serious injury, or death.
General Guidelines:
- Safety First: Always use appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves. Ensure the vehicle is securely lifted and supported on jack stands.
- Consult Vehicle Service Manual: Refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed instructions on brake component removal and installation, including torque specifications for all fasteners.
- Component Inspection: Before installation, inspect all new components for any signs of damage or manufacturing defects.
- Clean Mounting Surfaces: Thoroughly clean all mating surfaces on the hub and caliper bracket to ensure proper seating of the new rotor and pads. Remove any rust or debris.
- Lubrication: Apply the provided high-performance ceramic brake lubricant to all contact points between the brake pads and caliper, as well as on the caliper slide pins. Avoid applying lubricant to the friction material of the pads or the rotor surface.
- Install Rotors: Mount the new drilled and slotted rotors onto the hub, ensuring they sit flush.
- Install Pads and Hardware: Install the new Z23 carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads along with the premium stainless steel hardware kit into the caliper. Ensure shims are correctly positioned.
- Reassemble Caliper: Reassemble the caliper and mount it back onto the vehicle, tightening all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
- Bleed Brake System: If brake lines were opened or if the pedal feels spongy, bleed the brake system according to your vehicle's service manual to remove any air.
- Final Check: Double-check all connections and ensure all components are securely fastened before lowering the vehicle.

Image: A close-up of a mechanic installing a brake pad, demonstrating a step in the brake system assembly process.
Operating and Break-in Procedure
Proper break-in of new brake pads and rotors is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This process helps to transfer a layer of friction material from the pads to the rotor surface, ensuring consistent braking and reducing the likelihood of noise or vibration.
Recommended Break-in Procedure:
- Initial Stops: Perform 5-6 moderate stops from 40 mph down to 10 mph. Allow approximately 30 seconds between stops for the brakes to cool slightly. Avoid coming to a complete stop during these initial cycles.
- Harder Stops: Perform 2-3 harder stops from 50 mph down to 10 mph. Again, allow approximately 30 seconds between stops.
- Cool Down: After the last stop, drive for several minutes at a moderate speed without applying the brakes to allow the entire brake system to cool down. Avoid heavy braking or prolonged stops immediately after the break-in procedure.
During the break-in process, you may notice some smoke or a distinct smell. This is normal and indicates the resins in the pads are curing. Avoid using cruise control during break-in to ensure proper brake application.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance and inspection of your brake system are essential for safety and performance.
- Routine Inspection: Periodically inspect brake pads for wear, rotors for scoring or warping, and brake lines for leaks or damage. Consult your vehicle's maintenance schedule for recommended inspection intervals.
- Brake Fluid Check: Check brake fluid level and condition regularly. Replace brake fluid according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.
- Cleaning: Keep wheels and brake components clean to prevent buildup of dust and debris, which can affect performance and appearance. The Z23 pads are designed for low dust, but occasional cleaning is still beneficial.
- Noise Monitoring: While these pads are designed for quiet operation, any persistent squealing, grinding, or unusual noises should be investigated by a qualified mechanic immediately.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your Power Stop brake kit, consider the following common troubleshooting steps. For complex issues, consult a professional mechanic.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Brake Noise (Squealing/Grinding) | Improper break-in, worn pads, foreign object, caliper issues, lack of lubrication. | Ensure proper break-in procedure was followed. Inspect pads for wear. Check for debris. Verify caliper function and apply lubricant to contact points. |
| Vibration or Pulsation during Braking | Rotor run-out, uneven pad transfer, warped rotors (less common with drilled/slotted). | Re-perform break-in procedure. Inspect rotors for damage or excessive run-out. Ensure proper installation and torque. |
| Reduced Braking Performance | Air in brake lines, contaminated pads, worn components, brake fluid issues. | Bleed brake system. Inspect pads for contamination (oil/grease). Check brake fluid level and condition. Ensure all components are correctly installed. |
| Excessive Brake Dust | Normal during initial use, or if not Z23 pads. | The Z23 pads are designed to be low-dust. If excessive dust persists, ensure genuine Power Stop Z23 pads are installed. Dust levels should be significantly lower than OEM. |
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Power Stop |
| Model Number | K5303 |
| Model Name | Power Stop K5303 Rear Z23 Carbon Fiber Brake Pads with Drilled & Slotted Brake Rotors Kit |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car, Truck |
| Position | Rear |
| Rotor Type | Drilled & Slotted |
| Pad Material | Z23 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic |
| Rotor Finish | Zinc Plated |
| Item Weight | 37 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 14 x 14 x 10 inches |
| Assembly Required | No (refers to the kit itself, not installation) |
| OEM Part Number | K5303 |
| UPC | 792088948793 |
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding the Power Stop K5303 Brake Kit, please refer to the official Power Stop website or contact their customer support directly. Warranty terms and conditions may vary.
Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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