Originally posted by xoc: The Nissan rotors are just fine... If you use your brakes correctly, the rotors should last the life of the vehicle.
I just can't buy that completely but there may be multiple factors.
I mentioned earlier that I'm a fairly conservative driver, even while going off-road, which is not that often. I also drive with two different tire and rim sets for on and off-road.
After 24k miles, my rotors became glazed. This means the rotors heat to a point that while driving, harmonics are created between the brake pads and rotors, making them squeak like mad. They also appear with a slight blue color. Although, they had not heated to the point yet that they warped.
After talking with a friend who knows a lot about mechanics and engineering, he mentioned that with my steel rims on, there is less airflow. I have small gaps between my spokes with this rim. Also, the steel does not disperse the heat like my stock aluminum rims do. Also, the stock spoke spacing is much larger allowing for greater airflow for cooling. (See photos below)
With this theory, I've concluded that with my steel rims in summer heat even considering my conservative driving, this setup can shorten the life span of the rotors.
Having said that, the Xterra is rated one of the best braking mid-size SUV's on the market. Although, I think the Nissan rotors for the Xterra could be better.
My steel rim and tire setup..
My Stock rim and tire setup..
Originally posted by XTERRUSS5:
Also while the quesiton is out there, I'm always looking for good upgrades to put on my wish list. Anyone know of any good cross-drilled rotor kits to put on the front?
I'm researching this myself. When I find a vendor I'll post it.