TRW · Part number GDB255 · NZ$120.00 incl. GST
Chasing parts for your classic European Ford like a Sierra, Escort, or that zippy Fiesta XR2i from the 80s and early 90s? These TRW Brake Pads are the absolute business, turning your foot on the pedal into proper, safe stopping power, and they're crucial for keeping those beloved classics humming along on Kiwi roads.
NZ$120.00 including GST. Part number GDB255.
Brake Pad Replacement for Your Classic Ford: Let's Get It Sorted!
> Right then, let's talk brake pads. These little beauties are the unsung heroes, the friction material that clamps down on your rotors to bring your pride and joy to a halt. Over time, they wear down – it's just a fact of life, like a good ol' Kiwi summer eventually fading. When they get too thin, your stopping power drops quicker than a stone, and you're looking at metal-on-metal action, which is a big no-no for your rotors. For those classic European Fords – think Sierra, Escort, or that nippy Fiesta XR2i – whether it's your weekend warrior or your trusty daily, top-notch brake pads aren't just a good idea, they're essential for safety and keeping these increasingly sought-after machines in tip-top shape.
Symptoms That Led You Here
• High-pitched squealing or metallic grinding when braking indicates wear indicators are exposed or pads are completely worn
• Increased stopping distances requiring earlier braking than usual
• Brake pedal feels spongy or travels further before engaging
• Vehicle pulls to one side under braking suggesting uneven pad wear
• Visible pad thickness below 3mm when inspecting through wheel spokes
• Pulsation or vibration through the pedal during braking
Will it pass WOF?
Brake pads are a critical WOF inspection item in New Zealand. Pads must have adequate friction material remaining (typically minimum 1.5mm, though replacement is recommended well before this point). Any metal-to-metal contact, uneven wear patterns, or contaminated friction surfaces will result in WOF failure. Inspectors also check for proper pad seating and secure retention in the caliper bracket.
DIY or Workshop?
Difficulty: 4/10 | Time: 45-90 minutes per axle | Tools: Jack and stands, wheel brace, socket set (typically 13-17mm), C-clamp or brake piston tool, brake cleaner, copper grease
Changing brake pads on these classic Fords is a pretty straightforward job for the home mechanic with a decent set of tools. The single-piston sliding caliper design on most Sierra and Escort models is fairly simple. Just be careful when retracting the caliper piston – don't damage that dust boot! And make sure you bed those new pads in properly afterward. If you're a bit unsure about tackling safety-critical stuff, getting a workshop to do it is money well spent, no worries.
Expert Recommendation
Bob and the CARFIX crew always reckon you should swap out those brake pads before they get too thin. Waiting until the wear indicators start squealing means you've already lost some braking grunt. For those classic European Fords that might see a bit of spirited driving on New Zealand's amazing winding roads, quality pad compounds make a real difference to how your pedal feels and how well they resist fade. Bob @ CARFIX is always on hand to help you work out exactly what brake pads you need for your classic Ford. Make sure you head over to Bob's Shop for a chat!
Fitment Notes
This pad set fits a wide range of Ford models from 1980-1993 including Sierra variants (base, i, D, DOHC), Escort models (including diesel variants), and the sporty Fiesta XR2i. Given the 52+ vehicle applications, always confirm your specific model year and brake setup—some variants may have different caliper configurations. These classic Fords are now 30+ years old, so check disc rotor condition and thickness simultaneously, as worn rotors will rapidly destroy new pads.
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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 (SKU DF1655S) 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.