The pads and rotors you chose won't affect pedal travel, but they may affect pedal feel, due to the difference in the initial bit of the aftermarket pads, and the surface finish of the aftermarket rotors.

If there is in fact more pedal travel, the most likely cause is air in the system relating to you flushing the fluid.

Squeal is due to pad vibration. You shouldn't have to use the antisqueal paste on the back of the pads, but it is very important to apply high temperature grease (which may be what you mean) on the ears of the pads, where they touch the calipers.

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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
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2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
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