With all this conversation about brakes lately, I have a question. I've looked through the archives and can't seem to find the answer.

I have a 90 Formula 350. How do I know what brakes I have on the car?
When I go to the parts store and give all my info (engine size, package, 4whl disk), there are 2 things available for the front. One says "w/perf package" and the other says "w/o perf package".

I assume the "perf package" refers to 1LE brakes, but how do I know? Are the pad shapes very different?

Oh, BTW, yes, I am too lazy to pull a wheel and a caliper and grab the pads and take them in to compare. I need to do all 4 corners for brakes (and struts/shocks, and springs, and bushings...), and I want to get my ducks in a row before taking anything apart.

Anyway, can I tell by option codes? Anything else easy or general?

Thanks for helping another FNG!! (f'ing new guy)

 

Unless you have 1LE, you don't have the "performance package". None of the regular brake parts is even remotely similar to the 1LE parts.

 

Take a magnet and see if it sticks to the front calipers. If it does, then you have the regular brakes. If it doesn't and the calipers have fins on them and look like they're aluminum, then you have the 1LE brakes. Yes, the pads for the 1LE brakes are quite a bit different from the regular brake pads. 1LE is the option code, so you can find out if you have that by looking at your options sticker and seeing if it's listed. Sometimes, perf. package refers to having 4-wheel disc brakes as opposed to having drum brakes in back, but you'll have to check with the shop to see if they have a separate definition for that...

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Greg Westphal
'87 IROC 305TPI/A4