Brake upgrade for bigger tires

I see there’s another thread for brakes going but it’s for guys who are towing. I don’t tow, I’m not sure if I should follow the same advice. When I went to a heavier 35” I lost some stopping power. My last brake change I went with Napa pads and rotors because my shop recommended them. I immediately noticed they were worse than OEM, but didn’t do anything about it.

I drive in NYC and have to brake hard constantly. I usually have some weight in the bed but don’t tow, plus heavy 35” tires. I give myself space but there’s been a few times recently where I just can’t stop safely. It’s time to replace my brakes again and would appreciate some recommendations. I don’t really have a budget but don’t want to waste money unnecessarily.

 

Call wilwood, they can probably fit you with a complete brake upgrade, calipers, rotors, brake pads, master cyclinder, etc. Guestimate about $3k for parts....?!

 

I was kind of hoping I could at least get to it to stop like it did stock with upgraded pads and rotors. No?

 

I know the search here is kinda jacked but if you google search there are a couple threads here about upgraded brakes.

 

I put the r1 concepts drilled and slotted rotors with their heavy duty pads and I have no problem stopping.

 

In my opinion I don't think stock is sufficient, I would prefer something with better initial bite and more linear brake response. Upgrading rotors and pads may provide what you desire.

 

I tried that. I was surprised I didn’t find more recommendations.

Thanks, I’ll look into those.

Yeah I agree. It looks like you ride motorcycles. On my bikes/cars I’m more performance oriented. I drive my truck more conservative. I just don’t want to rear end someone if they stop short lol.

 

Just spent 400.00 for complete set of POWERSTOP EXTREME Z36 PADS AND SLOTTED AND DRILLED ROTORS, Calipers were fine at 70,000 miles. Just seated in today, and feel real solid stopping . Auto Anything gave me a great deal.

 

That’s exactly the kind of deal I was hoping for. Few questions. Does it stop noticeably better? Did you put them on yourself, if so how bad was the install? Did you do just the front or front and back? Did you call auto anything to get a discount, or just the online price? Thank you

 

A more aggressive pad compound like Hawk HPS or EBC Green will help stopping power. Blank rotors naturally have the most surface area for pads to grip. Slotted and drilled are mainly for looks on a street vehicle. They also can be risky if the company did a poor job drilling them.

Centric blanks (Brembo) are the best rotor option for 95% of people.

Big brake kits improve fade resistance during extended periods of heavy use like towing or track driving. They do not provide improved stopping power on their own.

Get your brake fluid flushed too

 

Best upgrade for shorter stopping distance:

Michelin tires in a 265/65-18

 

All 4 did myself, also worked on emergency brake setup, got all cleaned up and set. still scared to push the pedal after 7 years. But any way yes I called AA TO GET BEST PRICE, Couldn't get 22% off on line , so they helped me out . I think it was 397.00 for all 4 wheels.Not a bad install, just be sure and fit all pads to the calipers before hand , using wire brush on caliper and file edges of steel backs on pads ,so they go in smooth. On rear just be sure and have 2- 8mm bolts to get rear hubs off, and spray all fittings down good ahead of time with PB BLASTER, and in one video he said loosen back bleeders to compress calipers, no need just keep fluid level low with turkey baster and good clean jar. Use 2- c-clamps with old pads to compress pistons on each side of caliper, and spray caliper boots with good silicone spray before compressing to help keep from cracking them. Just take your time, have fun.Not that bad.

 

I thought the Tundra had beefier brakes to begin with compared to other trucks. When I went to 32s I didn t notice any difference. I can still stop on a dime.

 

I used Centric cryo-treated rotors (solid, not slotted or drilled) and TRD pads and they work well for me.

 

Agree with drilled and slotted alot for looks , but solids do hold heat longer and tend to get more hair line cracks and develope hard spots, Got these at same price as OEM so i decided what the heck, they look good and I do feel a better stop , could just be cause they are new , time will tell. Powerstop is good brand. Good nite.

 

Its funny you say that. On the freeway I try to keep a good distance from the vehicle in front of me, and folks end up passing me, and cutting in front of me, so it s a constant battle to keep a safe distance. Some of them are assholes too. Very few actually drive the speed limit, and some are freeking maniacs. I m just glad I m driving a truck.

 

Great information! Thank you

 

Exactly this. The people in NYC are terrible. I leave space to be safe just to be cutoff. It seem like since they’re lifting the quarantine it’s worse than ever. I don’t know if these people just haven’t drove in 2-3 months or what.

 

If you haven't already, get stainless steel brake lines. They won't increase stopping power, but they do make the brakes feel a lot more responsive and accurate to pedal press. Just a thought. Good luck!