1999 LX 470 Brake System Upgrade

[Zgbdt]

Looking for options for full brake system replacement. Including master cylinder and abs.. Not satisfied with stock brake system performance. Dealership says that they system is functioning as designed. In comparison, when i drive a 2003 Landcruiser it is night and day difference with the LC being far better braking and pedal feel. My LX stops ok with lots of effort and pedal seems to have very little power until depressed 1/3 of total travel to floor. Under quick braking situations on a gravel road for instance, the pedal goes way down to floor and surges a little when antilock is activated.

Anybody else have any observations re: brakes of this vintage?

I would love to find a full meal deal replacement that is totally bomber, but i've searched high and low and seen only stoptech kits that look even remotely viable, but if the issue that i'm experiencing is related to the electric / hydraulic brake master cylinder, then what's the point of replacing calipers and rotors.

Any other brake advise is hugely appreciated.

B
('99 lx470 fully stock presently with 45,000 mi)

 

[kyoso23]

You should start with a full bleed and go from there.

 

[spressomon]

I suggest you do the plunger swap (cheap insurance if you can do this easy swap yourself), thoroughly inspect for sticking calipers and do a thorough bleed down. This atop having high quality and true (don't assume all rotors are true out of the box) rotors...and of course top shelf pads designed to give you the performance you are after. Follow Skidoo's generous how-to post.

FWIW: If you can't afford the Stoptech BBK, worth every cent IMO...especially for heavy rigs and 35" tires), then I recommend ART rotors and Porterfield carbon/kevlar pads if you are searching for dramatic increase in peak brake power.

 

[ckkone]

I upgraded my brake lines, pads and fluid recently, the difference was pretty dramatic...I would try that first.

https://forum.ih8mud.com/showpost.php?p=8641885&postcount=1386

I got the pads and lines here:

http://autoplicity.com/products/3474722-goodridge_2_21126_g_stop_brake_lines.aspx

http://autoplicity.com/products/5959-ebc_ud773_ultimax_premium_oe_replacement_pad_set.aspx

http://autoplicity.com/products/5979-ebc_ud812_ultimax_premium_oe_replacement_pad_set.aspx

And used this fluid:

http://www.motul.com/us/en-US/products/168?f[application]=144&f[range]=25

 

[bamachem]

Check for a loose spindle nut. Had a 2004 that had weak/spongy brakes and would firm up when pumped.

Spindle nut was loose and allowed rotor to walk inside the caliper. Easy fix.

 

[tlc81]

Same issue

I had the same issue and swapped in slotted rotors and performance pads and stainless flex lines and the braking is noticeably better.... Actually it's way better. I cost less than 750 bucks including fluid and installation and misc parts.
Ordered on line from buybrakes.com
Pads were hawk
Lines are from goodrich

Fast is optional, stopping is mandatory

 

[squeezer]

Put the StopTech front brakes on a while back and would do it again tomorrow...

 

[Wilsil]

I think I have to have a look at mine as well.
When braking, the car is a little bit "shuddering", like its bitting, its not bitting.