BRM Official Blog

Slotted brake rotors contain machined grooves that help dissipate the heat that’s produced by braking. In racing, motorsports, and even regular driving, friction causes a layer of gas and dust to form between the brake pad and the brake rotor. Over time, this material transfer layer can impede performance. 

Slotted rotors help to reduce friction, but surface contact between pads and rotors eventually requires rotor resurfacing. For optimum brake performance, brake rotors require a non-directional or “basket weave” finish that’s free from deposits of brake pad material. 

To achieve this ideal finish, a do-it-yourself (DIY) mechanic recently tried the Flex-Hone® for Rotors tool from Brush Research Manufacturing (BRM). The racer who requested the resurfacing hadn’t heard of BRM’s rotor hone before, but the mechanic who used the tool gave it a thumbs-up. 

DSPORT magazine is a premiere publication for automotive enthusiasts who want to learn about the hottest cars, tools, and technologies.  As a regular service to its readers, DSPORT tests automotive tools to see if they perform as advertised.

For resurfacing brake rotors, BRM’s Flex-Hone® for Rotors tool promises a non-directional finish for lower harmonic vibrations and a quieter ride.

Brush Research Manufacturing (BRM) also claims that its rotor hone removes the accumulated brake pad glaze that contributes to squeaking and squealing in the first place.

When DSPORT magazine put the Flex-Hone® for Rotors to the test, writer Jun Chen captured the results of this rotor refurbishment project. Do-it-yourselfers (DIYers), brake technicians, and automotive mechanics will want to know the results.

Most brake rotors get resurfaced when old, worn brake pads are replaced. By the time a vehicle needs a brake job, the rotors may have grooves or areas of wear from the rubbing of the old pads. If a brake rotor has an uneven surface, the new pads won’t make contact with the rotor at the proper angle – and squeaking or squealing may result. Even with new OEM or aftermarket rotors, a factory finish that’s less than ideal may cause brake noise. 

To improve the surface finish of brake rotors, auto mechanics trust the Flex-Hone® for Rotors tool from Brush Research Manufacturing (BRM). Named an Undercar Digest Magazine Top Ten Tool for 8 years in a row, BRM’s rotor hone imparts a non-directional surface finish where “scratches” on the rotor’s surface extend in various directions. This “basket weave” finish doesn’t just help the new pads to seat properly. It lowers harmonic vibrations and reduces noise. 

Did you know that the automotive aftermarket is a $36-billion industry? Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), aftermarket auto parts manufacturers, car dealers, installers, retailers, and restoration specialists all want the best deals and hottest products for their stores, shops, warehouses, and garages.

Where will they find what they're looking for?

Rusty brake rotors don’t just look bad. Corrosion can cause uneven or premature wear to your brake pads. Rust can also promote the excessive build-up of heat, which can cause brake rotors to warp. From friction-induced brake noise to that annoying, pulsing feeling in the steering wheel, brake shop mechanics hear their share of complaints. So what’s the best way to solve brake rotor problems?