Hello,

I am on my 2nd Ex and the brakes are going to get replaced. With my first EX I went with factory OEM pads/rotors because it was at the dealership and I although I read that factory rotors used to be prone for warping I thought my brakes worked good except on my first trip out towing my 9K travel trailer going down a big hill in TN on my first strong application of brakes the pedal started to vibrate from what I assumed what rotor warpage because of heat and I noticed some brake fade. It had me really concerned because I wasn't riding the brakes and if I needed more stopping power it might not have been there. What are some recommendations of rotors and brake pads for an occasional tow vehicle?

 

Nothing wrong with stock for me. I changed pads awhile back and the rotors were fine.

 

Stock was fine for me too. I replaced @ 132,000 first set. Installed best pads and USA made rotors from local parts house and over 200,000 now with a lot of pad left. Use tow haul mode and your exhaust brake will kick in and help you slow down. I even use it when empty in mountainous areas on trips to save brakes. I drive it like I stole it most of the time too!

 

If you tow alot you should get some ceramic brake pads, they can handle alot more heat before they start to fade.

 

I went to 18 in wheels with an open spoke design to provide more air to the calipers and rotors. It helps when towing. The wheels look better, and work better. Ride quality, less squish and squirm when cornering, better load capacity, better truck!

 

I went with Power Stop brakes, got them from Summit on ebay, $400 for the whole setup, worlds better then stock. I tow a lot and they definitely stop quicker then stock. Follow the break in procedure and they work great.

 

Aftermarket or Ford rims, if Ford which year and which vehicle were they from?

 

I chose gear wheels this time but I like the method wheels and some others too. Local shop uses tire rack so I can get deals there. My 03 had 16 in alum wheels and they were close to the rotors and closed in a lot. Now I get more brake dust but so far seems less heat and fade. The power stops seems interesting, but mine working so nice I think the traction bars are still next mod! Will show pics after I get fabbed in a couple weeks.