Upon installing performance friction brake pads on vehicle, I felt they were wrong. I called auto zone from whom I purchased after measuring and finding they were 0.773 thick. They assured me they were the right pads. I installed and thought nothing more of it. Upon driving vehicle around a month later, I had not gotten 5 miles when the friction caused my caliper seals to catch fire. We contacted performance friction the same day and talked to mike cochrane, who assured he would investigate and get back to me. After not hearing anything for over a week, we contacted again. This time I talked to jennifer ramsey, whom contacted me the following via E-mail and said they would investigate and get back. I did some investigating myself and found the following : Napa pads measured 0.719 ; albany 0.720 ; wagner 0.717 ; wagner heavy duty 0.738 aand motorcraft 0.738. I reported these findings to Ms. Ramsey and asked why their pads were nearly 0.040 thicker than any other manufacturer, but still have no answer. The last contact I received from Ms. Ramsey stated that these pads were high volume sellers and they had no other complaints, and they were still investigating dated 11/07/01. I last E-mailed Ms. Ramsey on 12/07/01 and have received no response. Thank you.

- Newport, NC, USA

Vehicles taken to pa inspection station for yearly required inspection. Technician found cracks in both front disc brake rotors and sever dragging of the calipers. Vehicle would not pass inspection and repair facility recommended replacing rotors and calipers. All parts are ordered and expect replacement in several days. Contacted Ford Motor Company to find out about recalls; none listed. Ask about replacement or repair in out-of-warranty situation because of safety item; they said no because it was out of warranty. My concern is that possibly more than just my vehicle has developed the cracks in the rotors because of a defect in the part. I feel this is a serious safety issue because of the weight and size of the unit. As a motorhome over 10,000 lbs and 32 feet in length any braking problem at highway speed could lead to major accident potential. Whether Ford assists or the NHTSA investigates to determine if a recall is necessary, the vehicle will be repaired because I personally will not use it with defective brakes.

- Waynesboro, PA, USA