I ran a 1st gen RX7 with Hawk Blues for several years without brake problems. Like Scott, I had ISC modified backing plates on the front and collected air from a duct in the air dam. I changed pads and rotors yearly, ran approximately 5 race weekends of 2 qualifying sessions and 2 races each weekend. I too used full synthetic grease (Valvoline black) and repacked frequently. My only brake problems were when I tried to change from Hawk Blue to Black on the rears and they would lock up. Changing back to Blues fixed the problem. I can't give any help on new Hawks or much else about brakes. I probably was relatively easy on brakes but they guy who bought my car runs it harder and doesn't have problems either.