Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about Muscle Car Brakes products, installation, performance, and warranty.
Do your brakes squeal?
No. Squealing is caused by a vibration from worn-out caliper bushings or out-of-round rotors — not from the brake material itself. MCB's Matrix Ceramic pads and shoes are designed to operate quietly under normal conditions.
Does the direction of the slots on the rotors matter?
Yes. If you face the slots in the opposite rotation direction, the rotors go against the grain of the pad, accelerating pad wear significantly. Always install directional rotors with the slots sweeping toward the rear of the rotor as it spins.
Can your rotors be turned?
Yes. MCB slotted rotors can be turned (resurfaced) when needed. A cross-drilled rotor cannot be turned — another reason slotted is the superior choice for classic muscle cars.
What does a non-directional turn of the rotors mean?
A smooth, non-directional rotor finish is essential in order for semi-metallic disc pads to seat and perform properly. When having rotors turned, specify a non-directional finish (swirl pattern) rather than a lathe scratch finish.
What kind of warranty do you offer?
Muscle Car Brakes offers a 60-day limited warranty against workmanship defects on all friction and related products. See our full Warranty & Return Policy for complete details.
How are your brakes different from standard OEM brakes?
MCB uses the highest grade of materials available and exceeds OEM specifications with technologically advanced Matrix Ceramic composite brake shoes and disc pads. Our Stage III Combo Set has up to 38% higher friction than standard OEM brakes, higher fade resistance, and is less detrimental to rotors and drums.
Will your product last longer than OEM?
Longevity depends on driving conditions — terrain, towing, 2WD vs. 4WD. Based on all four wheels using MCB products, wear should be equal to or better than OEM while delivering a much greater overall braking performance increase. Our products outperform and outlast other brakes 2 to 1.
How does your Trick Spring Kit differ from the standard stock spring?
The stock spring kit has 13 lbs. tensile strength per square inch. Our Trick Spring Kit has 31 lbs. tensile strength per square inch. The higher tensile strength eliminates the shoe from dragging on the drum when the brake pedal is released — improving response and reducing heat buildup.
Is your product difficult to install?
Absolutely not. Everything we make is a direct replacement. You do not need to modify, cut, or grind anything. Complete installation instructions are included with every order. A certified ASE mechanic is recommended for installation to maintain warranty coverage.
What is the benefit of cryogenically treated rotors, drums, pads, and shoes?
Cryogenic treatment makes the metal more dense than stock material, creating up to 40% better heat dissipation. This increases braking performance and significantly extends wear life. Cryogenically treated rotors and drums are custom-made for your application and are non-refundable.
What kind of brake improvement can I expect?
Based on all four wheels equipped with Muscle Car Brakes material, you can expect a 25% to 30% improvement in overall braking performance compared to standard OEM brakes.
Why are your slotted rotors better than cross drilled or stock rotors?
Cross drilled rotors remove 28% of the surface contact area. This forces the pad to work doubly hard, which results in fractured and warped rotors over time. Additionally, drilled rotors cannot be turned. MCB slotted rotors maintain full pad contact and can be resurfaced when needed — giving you better performance and a longer service life.