Beringer Aero PQT-003(A) – Individual Brake Pad

The Beringer Aero PQT-003(A) brake pad is used in many light aircraft equipped with Beringer EA-006-series brake calipers. These pads are commonly found on experimental, LSA, and light general aviation aircraft that utilize Beringer’s high-performance braking systems. They provide reliable stopping power and consistent performance across a wide range of operating conditions.

Yes. Although the updated EA-016 and EA-017 calipers now utilize the new PQT-103 brake pads, Beringer states that PQT-003 and PQT-004 pads remain available as spare parts. This ensures continued support for legacy EA-006 brake systems and aircraft already operating with earlier pad versions.

The PQT-003(A) brake pad is part of the earlier generation of non-ventilated brake pads designed for EA-006 calipers. In contrast, the PQT-103 features ventilated construction and cooling fins for improved heat dissipation. While PQT-103 pads improve thermal performance in high-energy braking scenarios, PQT-003(A) pads remain fully compatible with legacy systems and continue to perform reliably for standard light-aircraft operations.

PQT-003(A) and PQT-004(A) are paired brake pads designed to work together on opposite sides of the rotor. They are not interchangeable but are complementary – aircraft typically require both part numbers to fully service a single caliper assembly. Always verify your caliper model (EA-006.x series) and consult your aircraft or maintenance manual to confirm correct placement.

The PQT-003(A) brake pads are used with Beringer EA-006 and EA-006.X calipers, which were the standard before the EA-016 and EA-017 AEROTEC+ upgrades. These calipers support light aircraft that do not require the higher energy-dissipation capabilities of the AEROTEC+ variants. The pads are designed to maintain proper friction performance and wear characteristics under the caliper’s operating pressures.

PQT-003(A) pads are made from a high-strength friction material bonded to a durable steel backing plate. The design provides reliable braking performance, predictable wear, and resistance to glazing under typical aircraft operating temperatures. While they do not include the enhanced alloy and cooling features found in the newer PQT-103 pads, they remain robust for standard GA applications.

Brake pads should be visually inspected at every routine aircraft maintenance interval and whenever brake performance appears to be diminished. Pilots and technicians should inspect the pad thickness, look for uneven wear, and check for contamination from fluids or debris. Light aircraft operating frequently from short fields or rough surfaces may require more frequent inspections due to increased braking load.

Pads should be replaced when the friction material reaches the minimum wear thickness specified by Beringer, when glazing or cracking appears, or when braking effectiveness noticeably decreases. Uneven wear may indicate issues with caliper alignment or pistons, requiring further inspection. Replacing brake pads proactively helps maintain safe stopping distances and prevents damage to the caliper or rotor.

es. Like most aircraft brake pads, PQT-003(A) pads benefit from a bedding-in (break-in) process to ensure optimal friction characteristics. This typically involves performing several moderate braking applications during taxi to gradually heat and mate the pad surface to the rotor. Proper bedding improves stopping performance and helps avoid uneven wear.

Mixing PQT-003(A) pads with newer PQT-103 pads or AEROTEC+ system components is not recommended. The two pad versions utilize different materials and cooling properties, which may lead to uneven braking performance or accelerated wear. Operators should maintain consistent pad types across the entire wheel assembly, unless they are upgrading the entire caliper system.

PQT-003(A) pads are suitable for normal light-aircraft braking but are not optimized for the high-energy braking requirements seen in some advanced or heavy operations. AEROTEC+ brake systems introduced new pad technologies specifically to improve heat dissipation. Aircraft consistently experiencing high brake temperatures may benefit from upgrading to compatible calipers designed for elevated thermal loads.

Brake pads should be stored in a dry, temperature-controlled environment away from oils, hydraulic fluids, or solvents that can contaminate the friction surface. Pads should remain in their original packaging until installation to protect against dust and moisture. Proper storage ensures the friction material retains its performance characteristics.

Keeping rotors clean, ensuring proper caliper alignment, and maintaining correct hydraulic pressure are key to maximizing pad life. Avoiding excessive braking during taxi and using aerodynamic braking during landing can also reduce pad wear. Regular inspections further ensure small issues are corrected before they affect brake performance.