I tow heavy often and one of my biggest concerns is braking performance. Not that I have really had any issues, but I am not afraid of upgrading for an increased safety margin. That being said, the SSBC Calipers Clay sells are pretty expensive - what are the benefits of running them over stock? I am pretty ignorant when it comes to brakes, but have picked up a bit reading today. Can someone please tell me what makes these so awesome? I mean, I see that they have 8 pistons, but what does that do for you?

See them here:
Riffraff Diesel: SSBC Quick Change Front Caliper Kit

 

It equals to better pad life, better braking. But they are pricey. I'd recommend power slot rotors and hawk pads. More than enough stopping power for what you need.

Those SSBC rotors are more for show IMHO. But one day my cummins convo might have a set of them!!

 

In theory the trailer brakes are supposed to do the majority of the slowing and stopping of the trailer. In reality it doesn't seem to prove out.

If I towed real heavy I would be thnking about the trailer brakes as much as the truck brakes. Are there upgrades that can be done to trailer brakes? That would be something to investigate before spending a grand on calipers. JMHO

Towing, Trailers & 5th Wheels and Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Tires, & Wheels are two other FTE forums for info.

 

I was also wondering the same thing, I'm looking to upgrade pretty soon here. But what if you don't pull a trailer that much? My camper is almost 4000 lbs, and I know if I had to stop in a hurry, there's no way with stock brakes.. My trucks got alittle under 87000 miles on the stock set of brakes and there still good apparently, thanks to my exhaust brake. So if I upgrade to these, its gonna be for a while haha

 

I talked to an SSBC rep once. From what I remember, they don't offer calipers for the rear of our trucks, only the front. When I commented that I had brakes on all 4 wheels and didn't think it sounded right to ignore half the system, he said something about how the front brakes have traditionally taken the most wear, but he wasn't sure why they didn't offer anything for the rear.

I've got 4 wheel ABS and my brakes have always worn evenly. I can't see upgrading only the front calipers when they are working evenly. If you've only got 2 wheel abs and are going through front brakes, it may well be worth it.

I've got the hawk pads ad powerslot cryo rotors. My wife has a lift, oversize tires and EBC pads on stock rotors. Her truck stops as well as mine does.

 

Thanks for the info guys. It seems to me like the SSBCs are more for guys running big tires who need the extra stopping power. I think that G could be better spent in my case.

 

ebc yellow stuffs, even on stock rotors make a huge difference, create a little dust but work well.