Brake Issue

[ADVPIG]

Hello, I'm a nOOb to the Cruiser World, I'm a Jeep convert and I'm having a blast with the Cruiser. Right now I'm adding front/rear bumpers (ARB front, Trail Tailor rear), winch (Warn 8000) roof rack (Trail Tailor), sliders (Trail Tailor), and storage lids, including tail gate (Trail Tailor).

Last week I noticed the passenger front brake grabbing, pulling the rig to the right, when braking. The local shop is telling me that the calipers are seeping (not leaking, there is no oil on the ground). They recommend replacing calipers, rotors and brakes ($700, parts + labor). Is it necessary to replace both sides? If this is the fix, should I upgrade the rotors and calipers? Recommended upgrades?

 

[FRQ]

Given the toys you're installing on your 60, I assume you're planning to keep it for quite a while, so yes, replacing both sides is a good idea.

However, if you're trying to save some money, start by measuring brake rotor thickness (see FSM for specs) and checking the surface. If the rotors are within spec, you could leave those in place. Pads will need replacing, they will be soaked with seeping brake fluid.

Replacing rotors requires removing the hubs, replacing some gaskets, punching out wheel studs, etc, so that's probably where the major cost will be regarding labor. If you're not a DIY guy, once the rotors are off, you're halfway through a knuckle rebuild, might be a good time to have that done (or at least inspect/repack).

Can't help you with parts + labor prices, I'm not in the US. Regarding the calipers, you could just rebuild them, a kit is probably around $20.

As for a tried, cheap upgrade, check out the 4 runner calipers: 4runner brake install *pics*

Personally, I just rebuilt my stock calipers. My reasoning was that most guys upgrading are replacing 30 year old items with new parts when doing this upgrade, which left me wondering how much of the increased braking can be attributed to the slightly larger pad contact area.

Honestly, if you're looking to learn more about your 60, your rotors are good and you know someone with some wrenching knowhow, this might be a fun weekend project to tackle. Worst case scenario, you're out $20.

 

[Michael Hanson]

Hi, Personally I would just replace the side with the problem. I would replace pads on both sides. Don't throw old caliper away ,rebuild it .Also check brake lines for wear,cracks etc. Mike

 

[Spike Strip]

Well, I'm from the replace both school, as if one failed, the other may not be far behind, and I think aftermarket calipers come as a pair, anyway.

If you're replacing all that stuff, might be time to do a 4Runner brake upgrade, but you'll prolly need a Master Cylinder at the same time.

There's a write up in the FAQ section. Good place to start, also.

 

[Output Shaft]

All the new toys bolted to the truck are over 300 lbs. To put it bluntly: If you want to be able to stop in an emergency replace all the brakes. One way to look at it is from the other driver's perspective. Ask yourself if you would want to drive another car in front of your cruiser in the fog at high speeds. I wouldn't. Neither would anyone else.

 

[ADVPIG]

Thanks for all the advise. I decided to replace the calipers, rotors, pads and lines. The right caliper had been malfunctioning for awhile,the rotor was toast. $800! Stops fast and straight now.

 

[Output Shaft]

That has got to be the fastest brake job ever.

 

[Spike Strip]

$800 is a very fair shop price for all that work and parts - I'm guessing half that was in parts... It's a PITA to replace the rotors on these rigs.

 

[ADVPIG]

That has got to be the fastest brake job ever.

$360 for parts, the rest was labor. There was no chance I was taking on that challenge. Now I can get back to installing the rear cargo doors and tailgate storage doors before the bumpers and rack show up this week.

 

[SonnyAK]

Seems like a fair price for that work...Congrats on the repair!

 

[Randy88FJ62]

ADVPig,
Consider upgrading to 4runner calipers if you're swapping both out. OR go big money and get aftermarket fancy ones.

Braking system on these is meant for 30" tires and no heavy bumpers.