The Hawk HB143N.680 is a front brake pad in Hawk's HP+ compound, sized at 0.680 thickness for the 1997-2001 Honda Prelude. Hawk markets the HP+ compound as a street-legal option for Solo II, autocross, and track-day driving, which makes it a step up from stock pads for enthusiasts who brake harder than daily commuting requires. Owners on user forums often say pad upgrades deliver the most value when paired with stainless steel brake lines and high-temperature brake fluid, so consider those alongside the pads.
Hawk states that its pads are designed for iron or metal rotors and are not compatible with carbon ceramic rotors, so confirm your rotor type before ordering. Listed fitment covers 1997-2001 Prelude Base and Type SH models with the 2.2L engine, and Hawk's fitment list for the sibling front HPS pad matches those years. Verify fit by VIN before purchase. Searches for 1997-2001 Prelude front HP+ pads, Prelude autocross brake pads, and HB143N.680 install guidance point to this exact part.
The manufacturer states that its pads are designed for iron or metal rotors and are not compatible with carbon ceramic rotors.
The manufacturer positions the HP+ compound for Solo II, autocross, and track-day driving in a street-legal pad. It is not described as a full race pad.
Listed fitment for this pad covers 1997-2001 Honda Prelude Base and Type SH models with the 2.2L engine. The manufacturer's fitment list for the sibling front HPS pad matches those years. Confirm your model and engine by VIN before ordering.
Front pad replacement is a manageable job for someone with a jack, jack stands, and basic hand tools. Owners on user forums describe raising the car, removing the wheel, and taking out the two bolts on the back side of the caliper before lifting the caliper off the pads. Do not let the caliper hang from the brake hose; owners suggest supporting it with a bucket or bungee cord. Clean the contact surfaces with a wire brush, dab brake grease where the pads sit so they move freely, and use silicone-based lube on the slide pins, since oil-based lubricants can degrade rubber. To seat the new pads, you will need to push the caliper piston back, using a C-clamp or piston tool. Siphon some fluid from the reservoir first to prevent overflow. After installation, owners on user forums recommend properly bedding in the new pads against the rotors to avoid pulsation.
