Originally Posted by Argyle Edison

I didn't read all the replies, so I hope I'm not echoing here.

In my experiences with the T4R braking assembly, the calipers/pads are problematic in a couple ways:


The seals are prone to failure in areas of salt. This may or may not apply to you, but it's a thing (front and rear).

Heat kills seals. Duh

The pads that you buy these days, are not properly sized or shaped to fit these calipers properly. NONE of them.

Issues:
The pads are mass produced and the metal flange can be off or misshaped.
More importantly, the coatings they use end up leaving an oversized amount on on the contact area of the pad relating to the "slide" on the caliper.


Mitigation:
Sure, you can slam the pads in there. They will work. But over time they will willingly slide less and less till they inevitably stop returning and ride the caliper producing excessive heat, and the caliper will take a shit. $$$

I take some time and file down the pads where it contacts the caliper. I want them not so much loose, but free moving. When they heat up and expand, they will be slightly snug. Grease them appropriately.

Side note: I live in a winter salt hell. The only rotors and calipers I will use is Reybestos. The zinc (or whatever) coating they use holds up for a LONG time and they do not rust. The rotors last because I don't over heat them because the pads, and ultimately, calipers behave properly.


As far as downhill on long steep grades, people here have far more experience than I do. I'll defer