Wilwood Engineering - High Performance Disc Brakes

Brake Technology Evolution and Revolution

From its inception in 1977, Wilwood Engineering has been at the forefront of high performance disc brake technology. As founder and president, Bill Wood's first brake designs were developed to give stock cars racing on short tracks and super speedways superior braking performance with greater reliability. These first brake components incorporated new designs and manufacturing techniques that met with considerable success in helping to redefine the performance level of disc brakes on race cars. An engineering background helped Wood apply new technologies in a wide variety of motorsports applications, and by the early 1980's Wilwood had become a major supplier of high performance racing disc brakes to the industry.

Wilwood originally manufactured products utilizing a wide spectrum of aerospace job shops in Southern California, but the 1980's saw the transition to in-house manufacturing. This significant production change afforded Wilwood greater control and the ability to bring new designs to market faster, an essential requirement in the dynamic, fast-paced motorsports world.

Utilizing specialized computer controlled machinery with a sophisticated design network, and a solid foundation of engineers, designers, sales and administrative staff allowed Wilwood to grow quickly toward the end of the 1980’s. Corresponding with the growth of the racing industry, Wilwood became the major source for high performance disc brakes.

Wilwood's product line grew from individual disc brake components to complete braking systems including master cylinders, brake pedals, brake pads, racing hubs, specialty valves and high temperature brake fluids. Additionally, new applications were continually being developed and by 1993, Wilwood also became a major supplier of disc brake systems for recreational and utility vehicles. Further expansion has produced a wide variety of specialty, OEM, and industrial brake systems.

The 1990's saw steady sales growth in all of Wilwood's product divisions. The root of this growth is, and will continue to be our dedication to the racing industry, which fuels much of our research, development and technical prowess. By continually pursuing the higher performance standards of stronger, lighter, more reliable brake systems for the ever-changing racing market, Wilwood will maintain its performance edge on the track, street, and off-road.

The new millennium sees Wilwood positioned as one of the world's premier sources of high performance disc brakes. Advancements in technology, machine equipment and computer modeling will enable Wilwood to meet the never-ending challenge of building higher performing, lighter weight brake systems. Expanding the technological envelope fueled by the racing spirit, Wilwood Engineering will continue to lead the way in the twenty first century.