TheGrrrrr
GOLD Star
I've read dozens, if not hundreds of posts about brakes in my research so far. I've seen many talked about, some more than others, but it seems like there is relatively little documentation of experiences over time. Anecdotal replies seem to be the norm. Based on my research I have tentatively decided to go with the PowerStop Z36 kit (K4117-36) which is on order. I've created this thread to document my experiences with them. As they have not arrived yet, I'll first ask for any positive or negative feedback from the group. Assuming no show-stoppers are posted in response, I hope to have them installed before my trip to LCDC.
First I'll start by giving my thought process on the choice. Feel free to critique. While I generally do not tow, I have added a considerable amount of weight to my vehicle and will be adding more. I wouldn't concern myself with a heavy duty brake package if I spent the majority of my time on flat roads, even with the added weight for now, but I do spent most of my highway miles and off-road miles in mountainous areas. My understanding from other Z36 users on heavy rigs is that they have performed well under a variety of conditions. I know two people who have run them on F250s and a third (my mechanic) has them on order for his F250 as well. The F250 consistency is just coincidence. I have another friend who runs them on his Tundra, which is frequently used for towing. All have reported significant improvement over stock and good lifespan. My expectation is that for my rig at its current weight, and to accommodate future added weight (bumpers), the Z36 setup will perform well without being overkill. This was my goal. Good for today and good for the future.
I also decided to upgrade the lines to stainless steel StopTech/Centric (950.44519, 950.44025). I know that "upgrade" has received mixed reviews on here, but I prefer a firmer pedal feel and currently my pedal is too soft for my liking. I went with the StopTech/Centric lines found on amazon that have been referenced in other threads. My assumption is that with the new brakes and lines, I'll have a good starting point to evaluate and document my experience on various conditions and will post updates as I go.
For now, I would encourage you all to weigh in if you have thoughts or opinions. If you would like to tell me I'm an idiot, you are welcome to do so, but please also explain why.
I'll do my best to document the install and any issues that come up and hopefully will have a good opportunity to share some thoughts after the trip to LCDC.
First I'll start by giving my thought process on the choice. Feel free to critique. While I generally do not tow, I have added a considerable amount of weight to my vehicle and will be adding more. I wouldn't concern myself with a heavy duty brake package if I spent the majority of my time on flat roads, even with the added weight for now, but I do spent most of my highway miles and off-road miles in mountainous areas. My understanding from other Z36 users on heavy rigs is that they have performed well under a variety of conditions. I know two people who have run them on F250s and a third (my mechanic) has them on order for his F250 as well. The F250 consistency is just coincidence. I have another friend who runs them on his Tundra, which is frequently used for towing. All have reported significant improvement over stock and good lifespan. My expectation is that for my rig at its current weight, and to accommodate future added weight (bumpers), the Z36 setup will perform well without being overkill. This was my goal. Good for today and good for the future.
I also decided to upgrade the lines to stainless steel StopTech/Centric (950.44519, 950.44025). I know that "upgrade" has received mixed reviews on here, but I prefer a firmer pedal feel and currently my pedal is too soft for my liking. I went with the StopTech/Centric lines found on amazon that have been referenced in other threads. My assumption is that with the new brakes and lines, I'll have a good starting point to evaluate and document my experience on various conditions and will post updates as I go.
For now, I would encourage you all to weigh in if you have thoughts or opinions. If you would like to tell me I'm an idiot, you are welcome to do so, but please also explain why.
I'll do my best to document the install and any issues that come up and hopefully will have a good opportunity to share some thoughts after the trip to LCDC.
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