Brake rotor temps question

[ichevyracer]

I have a 96 Camaro that I just completed a brake rotor and pad swap. I used Summit crossed drilled rotors and Hawk brake pads. I want to make sure the the pads are not rubbing on the rotors. I figured I could use a infrared thermometer and check the temps after a shortd drive.

What should the temp. be about before (cold) and after a short drive around the block (about half a mile)?

Is there a better way to check to ensure they are operating correctly?

[trippinholyman]

i would just check the clearance after seating them it should straighten itself out. i had to take off the rotor and caliper to put a new wheel stud in (long story) and after i put it back on i just mashed the pedal some then put the wheel back on and checked it versus the other side

it dragged a little, but so did the other side, so no big deal.

[CALL911]

I think it would be easier to tell by feel of the car than to actually try to measure the temps as if it were touching just a little bit, it would probably cool before you had a chance to get the gun out.

[Fixxer99TA]

If you are talking about the rubbing between the brake pad and the rotor, this is normal. Every car that I am aware of (except LeMans race cars, which have rotor/pad clearance to keep the pads cool during the race. Not to mention those pads are about 1 3/4" thick and wear out every race anyways) has a 0 clearance brake setup.

There should always be some sort of light contact between the brake pad and rotor. This will not cause your brakes to get too hot.

The temp of your brakes after a short 1 mile drive should be next to nothing, especially on a cold day. They cool very quick. A hot day would be another story.