Mod (Ret.)

I never knew why slotted or drilled rotors were a "trick" to better braking until this past weekend when I watched one of those car shows on the Speed Channel. The guy hosting the show was installing a disc brake conversion on a 70's truck. He explained that when the brakes are applied, gases form between the pad and rotor, which can "dilute" braking ability. Slotted rotors allow the gases to expell out, and better braking effieciency is gained.

What he did not explain was when this mod becomes worth the cost; I'd think a normally driven street vehicle would do just fine without slotted rotors. Perhaps if your towing constantly, or driving your truck in motorcross events; this may warrant the additional cost.

f150mashin559

just go with the ceramic pads unless your truck has bigger tires and rims then stock.

White 5.4

Thanks for all the info. Here's the deal. I've got the stock chrome 18" wheels now, but will be upgrading to 20's on 33's eventually. I pull a 20' Key West boat about once a month and an enclosed 16' motorcycle trailer to the Mtns 2-3 x's a year. From what I've read here, based on my setup and hauling conditions, I probably could get by w/ just the ceramics, but upgrading the rotors wouldn't be bad either. I just want to be done w/ it the first go around. Thanks guys, wanted to get it from the horse's mouth instead of some biased brake rep. I'll get some pics up when done.