 Installation of the EBC pads...  Installation of the EBC pads are easy. Be careful not go get any grease on the face of the pad or rotor though. |  Psychologically speaking,...  Psychologically speaking, this photo is the epitome of what's conjured up in my head when I picture brake pads chomping down on the caliper. |  The brake line retainers bolt...  The brake line retainers bolt right in to the spindle using the stock 10mm bolts. The lines can move fore/aft in the holder, unlike the stock piece. This prevents the brake line from binding during driving. |
 The hardware included is all...  The hardware included is all new, so you can chuck the stock pieces out. Be sure to install the included copper washer onto the bolt before installation. The copper washer is malleable, and allows for a nice, leak-free seal. |  Copper washers go on both...  Copper washers go on both sides of the fitting. Make a note of this. Better yet, print this picture out and stick it to your girlfriend's forehead to remind you. Or your toolbox. Or her box. |  The rear brake line attatches...  The rear brake line attatches to the hard line just like the front. Be sure to spray some brake cleaner on the assembly and check for leaks before you hit the street. |
 Don't be lazy. You're almost...  Don't be lazy. You're almost done. Be sure to bolt the retainers onto the bracket of the rear trailing arm, as shown here. |  When installing the rear pads,...  When installing the rear pads, make sure that you also re-install the retaining springs as shown here. |  Damn, just look at the brakes...  Damn, just look at the brakes now. I'm ready for LeMans. |
Performance Evaluation
Honestly, I wasn't expecting a huge difference between the stock setup and the EBC/Techna-Fit tag-team, but after bedding the pads, the braking difference was night and day. Obviously, this could be partially attributed to the fact that the old rotors and pads were worn pretty badly. But the upgrade should show it's true worth after the bigger wheels and stickier tires are mounted. Some readers may question my choice to go with the pad/rotor/line trifecta. I could have easily picked up a Wilwood 12.2" big brake kit for a couple hundred bucks extra, but those brakes won't fit behind any old-school wheels. Besides, this is a street car, not a race car. I like my low-maintenance sealed calipers. Moreover, I'm very used to the modulation of the stock brakes for daily use. For an everyday streetcar that needs reliable, fade-free stopping bite, EBC Green Stuff pads, EBC rotors, and Techna-Fit lines are an excellent option for those who rather upgrade than replace.
On a scale of 1-10, 10 being the best:
EBC Rotor Quality/Fit - 10
EBC Pad Quality/Fit - 10
Techna-Fit Brake Line Quality/Fit - 10
Brake Upgrade Performance* - 8
Ease of Installation (Novice, Intermediate, Advanced) - Intermediate
*Using Castrol GT-LMA Dot 4 Brake Fluid $7.99/quart
Tools Needed:
- 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm sockets
- 3/8 ratchet
- 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm open-ended wrenches
- Standard pliers
- Channel lock pliers
- #2 Phillips screwdriver
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Hammer
- 10mm and 12mm Flare wrench
Tool MVP: 10mm/12mm Flare Wrench
We've just started. Part 3 of our Project Flashback will give you the play-by-play on the installation and evaluation of KONI Adjustable Shocks and Eibach Sportline Springs. Stay tuned to SuperStreetOnline for updates. We might even have sneak peeks of our new wheels...you'll be surprised!