Overview
The Baer Brakes Claw Performance Rotors, part number 54171-020, are a pair of front brake rotors for the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer, 2011–2019 Ford Taurus, 2012–2019 Ford Flex, 2011–2012 Lincoln MKS and 2011–2019 Lincoln MKT. They are direct replacement, cross-drilled and slotted, 325 mm vented rotors with a zinc-plated finish.
Brake rotors are the discs the pads clamp onto. The Claw design uses slots and drilled holes in the friction surface to let gases and dust escape from between the pad and rotor during braking. The slots and holes support a more consistent pedal feel and reduced brake fade, and the vane structure is designed for cooling. These rotors suit owners of those Ford and Lincoln models who want a performance-style front rotor.
Key features
- Cross-drilled and slotted friction surface that lets gases and dust escape between the pad and rotor
- Enhanced vane structure and premium materials for cooling and durability
- Premium, mill balanced, direct replacement rotor
- Chamfered cross-drilled holes to minimize stress cracking
- Zinc-plated finish for an appearance behind open center wheels
- Directional brake surface with one-piece full cast vented construction
Front rotor wear and thickness
Front rotors on these crossovers and sedans carry most of the braking load, so wear shows up quickly under daily driving and towing. Thickness loss, grooving and heat spots on the friction face all reduce braking efficiency. Check the outer edge for a raised lip during each pad change, and measure the rotor with a micrometer before deciding whether it can stay in service.
Drilled and slotted rotors can wear pads faster than plain rotors if the pad compound is too aggressive. Matching the pad to the driving style helps keep both parts in service longer and keeps pedal feel steady.
- Replace rotors at or below the minimum thickness
- Inspect for cracks around the drilled holes
- Use the bedding procedure after fitting new pads
Specifications
| Brand | Baer Brakes |
|---|---|
| Part number | 54171-020 |
| UPC | 844165045618 |
| Axle | Front |
| Rotor type | Vented, one-piece full cast |
| Material | Cast iron |
| Outside diameter | 325 mm |
| Overall height | 47 |
| Discard thickness | 28.5 |
| Mounting bolt hole circle diameter | 127 |
| Stud/lug hole quantity | 5 |
| Surface type | Slotted and drilled |
| Brake surface | Directional |
| Finish | Zinc plated |
| Grade | Premium |
| Emission code | 6 |
| Country of origin | CN |
| Sold as | Set |
| ABS tone ring included | No |
Vehicle fitment
The manufacturer fitment list covers front rotors for the 2011–2019 Ford Explorer, 2012–2019 Ford Flex, 2011–2019 Ford Taurus, 2011–2012 Lincoln MKS and 2011–2019 Lincoln MKT.
Fitment is qualified: it applies with solid rear rotors and a 325 mm diameter vented front rotor.
Not covered: model years outside the ranges above, and these models with a different rear rotor setup or front rotor size. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Because the ABS tone ring is not included, reuse the ring already on your hub. Replace the rotor once it reaches the discard thickness of 28.5.
What’s included
The kit includes a pair of front rotors, sold as a set.
Not included: ABS tone ring.
