I'm replacing the front rotors and pads on my 240 wagon with Volvo pads; rotor brand yet to be picked. Do I need to buy/install shims if I use the Volvo pads? I've heard both yes and no from various people and figured a few more opinions wouldn't hurt. I'd prefer to install one less thing (to break) but if they'll help with the noise issue then I'm more than happy to spend the extra five minutes. I've also head the Volvo pads a) come with shims or b) have them built in (don't know how this could be).
As far as the rotors I'm leaning toward Brembo as I've heard they're good and the price is right. The car is a daily driver wagon in Los Angeles so I don't need anything performance oriented just something good that will last; if one brand is better than the other I'd appreciate knowing about it. Do certain brands tend to squeal less? I do quite a bit of hill driving but don't know if cross-drilled rotors will help keep the brakes from getting hot. They do get hot occasionally now and the smell is a bit unnerving.
I'm also in need of a rear caliper and don't know if there is a difference between the brands. If there is please let me know.
Normally I would ask my local auto shop but buying the parts online is more than %50 cheaper so...

Thanks
Scott
1986 240 Wagon. 145,000 miles