When it comes to brake rotors, there are several options available in the market. Drilled, slotted, and smooth are three common types of brake rotors that offer different benefits and characteristics. In this article, we will delve into each type of rotor, their features, and the factors to consider when choosing the right one for your vehicle.
Drilled Brake Rotors
Drilled brake rotors have holes or channels drilled into their surface area to improve heat dissipation and cooling. This design helps to reduce brake fade and improves stopping power, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Drilled rotors are popular among performance enthusiasts and racing drivers who require maximum braking performance.
Features and benefits of drilled brake rotors:
- Improved heat dissipation and cooling
- Reduced brake fade
- Sporty look
Slotted Brake Rotors
Slotted brake rotors have a "slot" added to their surface area through a precession machining process. These slots help clean the contact area on the rotor's face by removing brake dust and build-up, which can lead to smoother braking and improved stopping power. Slotted rotors are also great for wet weather or track use, as they provide additional grip and traction.
Features and benefits of slotted brake rotors:
- Smoother braking
- Improved braking power
- Sporty look
- Reduced warping and glazing
Smooth Brake Rotors
Smooth brake rotors, on the other hand, have no holes or slots. They are designed for everyday driving and are often used as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Smooth rotors provide a consistent braking performance and are less prone to overheating.
Features and benefits of smooth brake rotors:
- Consistent braking performance
- Less prone to overheating
- Suitable for everyday driving
Drilled and Slotted Brake Rotors
Combining the features of drilled and slotted brake rotors, drilled and slotted rotors offer improved cooling and heat dissipation, smoother braking, and a sporty look. They are popular among performance enthusiasts who require maximum braking performance.
Features and benefits of drilled and slotted brake rotors:
- Improved cooling and heat dissipation
- Smoother braking
- Ultimate performance brake upgrade
- Reduced warping and glazing
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do Drilled & Slotted Rotors Wear Faster?
Yes, the answer is usually yes. Since vehicles using these drilled and slotted rotors tend to have more of a performance aspect, the life expectancies can be shortened.
- Are Drilled & Slotted Rotors Better Than Smooth Rotors?
Yes, drilled and slotted rotors provide plenty of benefits over smooth blank rotors; however, there is a lot of debate surrounding this topic.
- Can You Resurface Slotted/Drilled Rotors?
A professional lathe can resurface slotted or drilled rotors like a stock set. As with a standard rotor, the minimum thickness must be considered when turning these.
- Which Style of Rotors Are Best for Racing or Track Use?
This can vary from application to application. Different rotors can be used depending on the vehicle's weight and intended purpose. Slotted or Drilled/Slotted rotors are normally used in most cases due to the added benefits of cooling properties and gas dissipation under extreme braking conditions.
- Are There Special Pads required for Slotted or Drilled Rotors?
The same pads used for an OEM-style rotor can also be used on drilled or slotted applications. These do not require any custom pad to be used; however, there are different brake pad materials on the market for street, track, and race use only., choosing the right brake rotor for your vehicle depends on several factors, including driving style, weight of the vehicle, and intended purpose. Drilled, slotted, and smooth brake rotors each have their own unique benefits and characteristics. By considering these factors and understanding the features and benefits of each type of rotor, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right brake rotor for your vehicle.