so im installing new pads/rotors for my stoptech bbk.
the pads are hawk hp+ into a st-40 caliper.

this darn hawk pad is the correct pad, but fitment is very very tight and will not seat in with hard hand force. ive done a few different pads before and i was always able to install and seat the pads on the pistons with my bare hand.

i filed down the edges of the ends on the backplates, ..a little better,, but not flush with the pistons yet when trying to seat them again.

before i continue on,
1) tools ie clamps shouldnt need to be used for seating pads correct?
stoptech says definately not, zeckhausen racing says tools needed for this setup and shouldnt be able to do by hand.
2) must the pads literally be flush and pushed ALL the way in? or seated really close to flush with the pistons okay?..and it will seat itself in?

did anyone else run into this problem of filing a few mm of the pad backing plate away? im debating on how much filing/tight i want this pad snugged in there..and whether to start using a tool to just shove it in there.. i know too tight isnt good, and too loose isnt good.

any brake junkies out there? or experiences?

any info appreciated, thanks

 

Reviving an old thread here to see if anyone else has had this issue. I just installed some Hawk HPS pads on my car and one of the pads wouldn't go in without filing away the side edges a bit.

Has anyone else encountered this problem recently? There was a black coating on the backing plate that is now bare metal from having to shave it down. Will this be a future problem with rust?