I put a set of ceramics on my truck for the first time a couple of months ago and I have been very happy with them. Around here most of the part stores offer a lifetime warranty on their parts. I'm the type to keep a vehicle for years and years so I don't mind paying a little more for the pads one time. If I wear them out I'll get a second set at no charge.
Using a C-clamp - why didn't I think of that?
I used a huge pair of channel lock pliers to apply slow and steady pressure until veins were popping out of my forehead.
- Rob