1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your WINMAX AP3118 Brake Pads from the ARMA SPORTS AP3 series. These brake pads are specifically designed for the rear axle of FD3S vehicles and are engineered for high-performance applications, including mini-circuit use.
The ARMA SPORTS AP3 series emphasizes superior effectiveness and heat resistance, making them suitable for demanding driving conditions with high-power vehicles and compatible with S-tires and radial tires.
Figure 1.1: WINMAX AP3118 Brake Pads (Rear)
2. Product Overview: ARMA SPORTS AP3 Series
The ARMA SPORTS AP3 brake pads are a heavy-duty specification within the WINMAX ARMA SPORTS lineup, prioritizing both braking effectiveness and heat resistance. They are designed to perform optimally under conditions encountered in mini-circuit driving, considering factors such as vehicle speed, rotor temperature, and brake fluid pressure.
Key features of the AP3 series include:
- Highest effectiveness and heat resistance among AP1, AP2, and AP3 series.
- Reduced tendency for stickiness, even with increased effectiveness and heat resistance.
- Minimal reduction in effectiveness during continuous high-temperature use.
- Utilizes low-steel material with excellent release control.
Figure 2.1: WINMAX AP3118 Brake Pads with Packaging
Figure 2.2: ARMA SPORTS Series Overview
Figure 2.3: AP3 Series Features
3. Installation Guide
Brake system components are critical for vehicle safety. Installation should ideally be performed by a qualified professional. If you choose to install them yourself, ensure you have the necessary tools, knowledge, and refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed procedures and torque specifications.
3.1 Pre-Installation Checklist
- Ensure the vehicle is safely lifted and supported on jack stands.
- Confirm the brake pads are the correct model (AP3118) for your FD3S rear application.
- Gather all necessary tools: jack, jack stands, lug wrench, brake caliper tools, torque wrench, wire brush, brake cleaner, high-temperature grease.
- Inspect brake rotors for wear, cracks, or warping. Replace if necessary.
- Check brake fluid level and condition.
3.2 Installation Steps (General)
- Loosen lug nuts, then raise the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.
- Locate the brake caliper. Depending on your caliper type, you may need to remove guide pins or bolts to access the pads.
- Carefully remove the old brake pads. Note their orientation.
- Use a brake caliper piston compression tool to slowly push the caliper pistons back into their bores. Ensure the brake fluid reservoir does not overflow.
- Clean the caliper bracket, guide pins, and pad abutment points with a wire brush and brake cleaner. Apply a thin layer of high-temperature grease to the guide pins and pad contact points (not on the friction material).
- Install the new WINMAX AP3118 brake pads, ensuring they are correctly seated and oriented.
- Reassemble the brake caliper, ensuring all bolts and pins are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque.
- Repeat for the other side.
- Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm. This will seat the pistons against the new pads.
- Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary.
- Carefully test the brakes at low speed in a safe area before normal driving.
4. Operating Considerations
4.1 Break-in Procedure (Bedding-in)
Proper break-in (bedding-in) is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your new brake pads. This process transfers a thin layer of friction material to the rotor surface, ensuring consistent braking and preventing issues like judder or noise.
Follow these general steps for break-in:
- Perform 10-15 moderate stops from approximately 60 km/h (35 mph) down to 10 km/h (5 mph). Do not come to a complete stop.
- Allow approximately 30 seconds between stops for the pads and rotors to cool slightly.
- After the last stop, drive for several minutes without using the brakes to allow for further cooling.
- Avoid hard braking or prolonged heavy braking immediately after installation.
4.2 Performance Characteristics
The WINMAX AP3 series brake pads are designed for consistent performance across a wide temperature range, from normal operating temperatures up to 750°C. They maintain a stable friction coefficient, which is critical for predictable braking in high-performance driving scenarios.
Figure 4.1: Braking Performance (Friction Coefficient vs. Disc Temperature)
Note: Friction coefficient values are based on WINMAX's dynamometer test results and may not be directly comparable to other manufacturers' products.
Figure 4.2: AP Series Comparison (Radar Chart)
A larger value on the chart indicates better performance for that metric.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Regular Inspection
Regular inspection of your brake pads and associated components is essential for safety and performance. It is recommended to inspect your brakes at every tire rotation or at least every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
- Pad Wear: Check the thickness of the friction material. Replace pads when they reach their minimum recommended thickness (typically 2-3mm, or as indicated by wear indicators).
- Rotor Condition: Inspect rotors for excessive wear, deep grooves, cracks, or signs of warping (e.g., pulsing during braking).
- Caliper Operation: Ensure caliper pistons move freely and guide pins are not seized.
- Brake Fluid: Check brake fluid level and color. Dark or low fluid may indicate a need for replacement or inspection of the system.
5.2 Cleaning
Periodically clean brake dust from calipers, wheels, and surrounding areas using a dedicated brake cleaner. Avoid using petroleum-based cleaners that can damage rubber components.
6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section addresses common issues that may arise with brake pads. If problems persist, consult a qualified mechanic.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing/Screeching Noise | Improper break-in, worn pads, loose components, lack of anti-squeal lubricant, foreign material. | Perform break-in procedure, inspect pads for wear, apply anti-squeal compound to pad backing plates, clean and lubricate caliper components. |
| Reduced Braking Performance | Improper break-in, overheated pads (fade), worn pads/rotors, air in brake lines, low brake fluid. | Perform break-in, allow brakes to cool, inspect pads/rotors, bleed brake lines, check fluid level. |
| Vibration/Pulsation During Braking | Warped rotors, uneven pad wear, loose wheel bearings, caliper issues. | Inspect and replace/resurface rotors, check pad wear, inspect wheel bearings and calipers. |
7. Technical Specifications
The following specifications apply to the WINMAX AP3118 Brake Pad (ARMA SPORTS AP3) for FD3S rear applications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AP3118 |
| Manufacturer | WINMAX |
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Friction Material | Low-steel |
| Compatible Temperature Range | Normal temperature ~ 750°C |
| Average Friction Coefficient (Street) | 0.44 ~ 0.58 |
| Average Friction Coefficient (Circuit) | 0.35 ~ 0.40 |
| Item Weight | 1 kg (per set) |
| Package Dimensions | 20 x 15 x 7 cm |
8. Warranty Information
Specific warranty terms and conditions for WINMAX products, including the AP3118 Brake Pads, are typically provided at the point of purchase or can be found on the official WINMAX website. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. This manual does not constitute a warranty.
9. Customer Support
For technical assistance, product inquiries, or support regarding your WINMAX AP3118 Brake Pads, please contact the retailer from whom you purchased the product. You may also visit the official WINMAX website for additional resources and contact information.