...brakes as a result of getting larger diameter wheels IMO. Your new wheels (which are quite nice, btw) may be a couple lbs heavier than your old ones, but that would only increase the rolling resistance a wee bit. So, I really don't think you need to worry about larger brakes, tho I'm not really sure what might cause your pedal to feel different. I will say I've noticed slight differences in braking between each of my 4 sets of tires/wheels, most of which are all diff't diameters.
As for the rattle, first thing which comes to mind are swaybar links. Remember, applying the brakes essentially pushes the front wheels back into wheel wells. This could potentially take-up any "play" in worn suspension components, keeping them from rattling, however, they would start rattling again when you got off the brakes. Same could also happen if your front strut bushings were worn. Start simple (and cheap) and check out the swaybar links first...
Just my $.02 - hope it helps.
Rgds,
Tim G.
'91 535iM
Originally Posted by Deke NorCal