During annual, both my pads and discs were beyond limits (single-puck). So we replaced them. Both cylinders are firm and have good pressure.

Before they were replaced, I had good braking action, and could slow down just fine. Now it takes a hell of a lot of pressure, and still braking action isn't as good as it was with the worn out ones (not to the rivets and gouging the discs, mind you ).

Is there a break-in period on new brakes? Do I need to drive around for a while with brakes applied to heat things up and wear them in? Other?

The new pads need to be broken in. I usually find some grass and taxi relatively quickly. I then apply the brakes to a full stop. I repeat about 10 times and then let the brakes cool off. Usually, this is sufficient. If I don’t feel like I’m getting full braking, I do it again.

Also, make sure your new discs were cleaned with whatever solvent is recommended. The discs are coated with something to protect them but it needs to be cleaned off before use.

Joe

Thanks, Joe. Much appreciated.

I was also able to find this information in the Technician's Service Guide. It closely aligns with your experience.

http://www.parker.com/literature/Aircra ... SG0001.pdf

Guide AWBTSG0001-18/USA p.2

A. Conditioning Procedures
When new linings have been installed, it is important to condition them properly to obtain the service life designed into them. The metallic and organic linings have different operating characteristics. Separate conditioning procedures are given for metallic and organic linings.

ORGANIC LININGS
1. Taxi aircraft for 1500 feet with engine at 1700 rpm applying brake pedal force as needed to develop a 5-10 mph taxi speed.
2. Allow the brakes to cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Apply brakes and check for restraint at high static throttle. If brakes hold, conditioning is complete.
4. If brakes cannot hold aircraft during static run-up, allow brakes to completely cool and repeat steps 1 through 3.

METALLIC LININGS
1. Perform two (2) consecutive full stop braking applications from 30 to 35 knots. Do not allow the brake discs to cool substantially between
the stops.
2. Allow the brakes to cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Apply brakes and check for restraint at high static throttle. If brakes hold, conditioning is complete.
4. If brakes cannot hold aircraft during static run-up, allow brakes to cool completely and repeat steps 1 through 3.

These conditioning procedures will wear off high spots and generate sufficient heat to create a thin layer of glazed material at the lining friction surface. Normal brake usage should generate enough heat to maintain the glaze throughout the life of the lining. Properly conditioned linings will provide many hours of maintenance free service. A visual inspection of the brake disc will indicate the lining condition. A smooth surface, one without grooves, indicates the linings are properly glazed. If the disc is rough (grooved), the linings must be reglazed. The conditioning procedure should be performed whenever the rough disc condition is observed. Light use, such as in taxiing, will cause the glaze to be worn rapidly and reduce the designed service life of the linings and discs.

Closing the gap, the procedure worked like a charm