Last blog I started talking about how to improve stopping distances. The techniques are all the same whether we're talking about 0-100-0 or braking from 30 mph. The most critical factor is maximum braking effort imparted to the tires that will place the tires right at the doorstep of impending lockup for the entire duration of the stopping process. That sounds simple - and it is - but the reality is this is far from easy. Before you can really become proficient in cutting braking distances, it's imperative that the braking system in your car be in as great a shape as possible. Most enthusiasts will assume that means they have to spend big-time money. While those monster rotors and six piston calipers are sexy, you don't necessarily need them to generate a very quick stopping distance.
You've probably heard this before, but a highly skilled driver in a substandard car can whip up on those rich boys in their expensive machines if the big money boys don't know who to drive. So let's start with some simple things that can be done to improve braking on any car, even with stock factory discs. Disc brakes are really the only way to go. You can actually make a drum brake car stop in a relatively short distance - once. The problem is repeated stops quickly build so much heat that drums are good for one and maybe two good stops from 60 mph and then they completely fade. So we'll stick with discs. In my next blog, I'll talk about some simple things you can do to any car to improve both braking efficiency and your own peace of mind.