TRW · Part number GDB1493 · NZ$241.00 incl. GST
TRW Brake Pads Set (DB116) by TRW, part number GDB1493.
NZ$241.00 including GST. Part number GDB1493.
Swapping Out Your Brake Pads — The TRW Treatment
> Brake pads, eh? They're the unsung heroes of your braking system, working tirelessly to create friction against the rotors and bring you to a halt. Now, if you're rocking something like a Lotus Elise or a Nissan Skyline Turbo, you're putting those pads through the wringer – extreme heat and pressure. Over time, they'll wear down, especially if you're giving it a good thrashing on the track or just enjoying some spirited driving. Time to get 'em sorted.
Dead Giveaways It's Time for a Change
• Your stopping power's gone for a cafe lunch, and it's taking longer to pull up.
• The brakes are making some awful noises – squealing like a pig, grinding, or just plain old metallic screeching.
• You're getting the shakes through the brake pedal.
• The pedal feels soft or spongy.
• You can see the pads are looking thin – less than 3mm of meat left on 'em.
WOF Worthy?
Nah mate, worn brake pads are a straight-up safety issue and will fail a WOF faster than you can say 'flat tyre'. You need decent pad thickness and proper braking function to pass, no exceptions.
DIY or Call in the Troops?
Difficulty: 6/10 (Needs the right tools and a keen eye for detail – safety first!).
Estimated Time: 1-3 hours per axle.
Tools You'll Need: Jack, jack stands (never skip these!), wheel nut wrench, C-clamp or brake caliper piston compressor, brake cleaner, torque wrench, socket/spanner set, and maybe a brake bleeder kit.
🛠️ Bob's "Get It Done Right" Companion Checklist
Before you even think about cracking those wheel nuts, let's talk safety and making sure you're not creating more work for yourself.
• Safety First, Mates!: Never, ever get under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are non-negotiable. Eye protection Safety Glasses is also a no-brainer when dealing with brake dust and flying debris.
• Keep it Clean: Brake dust is nasty stuff. Grab some Nitrile Gloves to keep your hands clean and protected. A good blast of Brake Cleaner on the caliper and rotor will help dislodge stubborn grime before you start pulling things apart.
• Protect Your Investment: A bit of anti-seize compound on the caliper slide pins will keep things moving smoothly and prevent future headaches. Trust me, you'll thank yourself later.
• Lube It Up: A smear of brake caliper grease on the back of the pads where they contact the caliper piston will help prevent squealing. Nobody likes noisy brakes!
Bob's Two Cents
Bob @ CARFIX reckons you should always swap out your brake pads the moment they start looking tired or hit that minimum thickness. Keeps you safe and sound, plus your braking stays top-notch. For those high-performance machines, a quality pad like the TRW GDB1493 is worth its weight in gold for consistent stopping power. We've got a stack of brake pads from legends. Keen for a yarn about the best choice for your ride? Pop into Bob's Shop – I'm always up for a chat!
Fitment Notes
These pads are a perfect match for a bunch of high-performance rides, including the Lotus Elise (all sorts of models and years), Vauxhall VX220 i Turbo, and the Nissan Skyline Turbo. Double-check the specifics for your exact year and model – brake setups can be a bit different even within the same family.
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🛠️ Bob's Pro Tip: Do the Job Right!
> If you're swapping out these parts on your vehicle, don't skimp on fresh rotors. Check out our compatible TRW Disc Brake Rotors (Part No. DF2778S) to ensure a perfect bed-in and get the job done properly first time!
🧰 What Else You'll Need:
• Safety First: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always secure it on heavy-duty safety jack stands.
• Brake Dust Protection: Brakes get incredibly dirty. Keep a pack of Nitrile Gloves handy to protect your hands from stubborn brake dust.
• Clean and Prep: Use a high-quality Brake Cleaner spray to blast away stubborn dust, oil, and road grime from the caliper assembly and new rotors before reassembly.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin smear of high-temperature caliper grease to the pad backing plates and slide pins (keep it off the pad friction material!) to prevent squeals and ensure smooth caliper operation.