1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Power Stop Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware Kit, Model 17-1053. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning any work on your vehicle to ensure safety and optimal performance.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Automotive brake systems are critical for vehicle safety. Improper installation or maintenance can lead to serious injury or death. If you are not experienced with brake system work, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance from a certified mechanic.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands on a level surface before beginning any work. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Allow the brake system to cool completely before servicing.
- Do not use petroleum-based lubricants on brake components, as they can damage rubber parts.
- Dispose of old brake components and fluids according to local regulations.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in your Power Stop Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware Kit (Model 17-1053) before beginning installation:
- Ceramic Brake Pads (Set of 4 for one axle)
- Premium Stainless-Steel Installation Hardware Kit
- Performance Brake Lube
Image 3.1: Contents of the Power Stop Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic Brake Pads and Hardware Kit, showing the four brake pads, stainless steel clips, and guide pins.
4. Product Features
The Power Stop Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic Brake Pads are engineered for daily-driven vehicles, offering a balance of performance and clean operation.
- Low Dust Formula: Ceramic compound designed to minimize brake dust, helping to keep wheels cleaner.
- Thermal Scorched Surface: Brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a faster break-in period.
- OE Design: Chamfered and slotted like original equipment (OE) pads for noise-free braking and proper fitment.
- Dual-Layer Rubberized Shims: Engineered to insulate noise, contributing to quieter braking performance.
- Premium Hardware: Includes a stainless-steel hardware kit for a complete and straightforward installation.
Image 4.1: Diagram illustrating the multi-layer construction of the brake pads, highlighting the dual-layer rubberized shims designed for noise reduction.
Image 4.2: A close-up view of a vehicle wheel, demonstrating the reduced brake dust accumulation achieved with the low-dust ceramic brake pads.
5. Installation Guide
This section outlines the general steps for replacing brake pads. Refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
5.1. Preparation
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel(s) to be serviced.
- Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
5.2. Removing Old Brake Pads
- Locate the brake caliper. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove caliper guide pins or bolts.
- Carefully remove the caliper from the rotor. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose; support it with a wire or bungee cord.
- Remove the old brake pads from the caliper or caliper bracket.
- Inspect the brake rotor for wear, scoring, or cracks. Replace or resurface if necessary.
- Clean the caliper and caliper bracket thoroughly, removing any rust or debris.
5.3. Installing New Brake Pads
- Apply a thin layer of the provided performance brake lube to the contact points of the new hardware (clips) and the caliper bracket. Avoid getting lubricant on the pad friction material or rotor surface.
- Install the new stainless-steel hardware clips into the caliper bracket.
- Install the new Power Stop Z17 Evolution Plus ceramic brake pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure the pads are seated correctly and move freely.
- Use a C-clamp or brake caliper piston tool to compress the caliper piston(s) back into the caliper body. This creates space for the thicker new pads. Open the brake fluid reservoir cap before doing this, and monitor the fluid level to prevent overflow.
- Reinstall the caliper over the new pads and rotor. Secure the caliper guide pins or bolts and torque them to the manufacturer's specifications.
- Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications in a star pattern.
Image 5.1: A close-up view of hands installing a new brake pad into a vehicle's caliper assembly, demonstrating a key step in the installation process.
6. Break-in Procedure (Bedding-in)
Properly bedding-in new brake pads is crucial for optimal performance, longevity, and noise reduction. Follow these steps immediately after installation:
- Perform 5-6 moderate stops from 40 mph down to 10 mph. Allow approximately 30 seconds between stops for the brakes to cool slightly.
- Perform 2-3 hard stops from 50 mph down to 10 mph.
- Drive for several miles without heavy braking to allow the brakes to cool completely. Avoid coming to a complete stop with hot brakes, as this can imprint pad material onto the rotor and cause pulsation.
During the break-in process, you may notice some smoke or a distinct smell. This is normal. After the break-in, the pads should provide consistent and quiet stopping power.
7. Maintenance
Regular inspection of your brake system is vital for safety and performance. It is recommended to inspect your brake pads and rotors at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Check brake pad thickness. Replace pads when they reach their minimum wear limit (typically 2-3mm).
- Inspect rotors for excessive wear, deep grooves, or warping.
- Check brake fluid level and condition. Consult your vehicle's manual for recommended brake fluid flush intervals.
- Ensure caliper guide pins are clean and properly lubricated to allow the caliper to float freely.
- Listen for any unusual noises (squealing, grinding) and investigate promptly.
8. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues that may arise with brake pads.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing/Chirping Noise | Improper break-in, worn pads, missing shims, caliper issues, foreign material. | Re-perform break-in, inspect pads/shims, clean and lubricate caliper components, check for debris. |
| Grinding Noise | Severely worn pads (metal-on-metal), foreign object. | Immediately inspect and replace worn pads and potentially damaged rotors. Remove foreign objects. |
| Reduced Braking Performance | Improper break-in, contaminated pads/rotors, air in brake lines, worn components. | Re-perform break-in, inspect for contamination, bleed brake lines, inspect entire brake system. |
| Excessive Brake Dust | Normal during initial use, or if pads are not fully broken in. | Ensure proper break-in. While Z17 pads are low-dust, some dust is normal. |
9. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Power Stop |
| Model Number | 17-1053 |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
| Specification Met | OEM |
| Item Weight | 2.92 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 7.9 x 5 x 2.8 inches |
| UPC | 792088934468 |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
10. Warranty and Support
Power Stop products are backed by a manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For specific warranty details, claims, or technical support, please refer to the official Power Stop website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.
For further assistance, visit the official Power Stop Store.
