Cmanjr

So all the stuff for the 97-03 trucks including lightnings are the same for the front brakes as far as pads and rotors? That goes as far as fitment. And what calipers did they have on the 98 2wds? My truck has rear wheel abs I'm pretty sure.

Chris93XLT

I have a 01 S/Cab 4x4 that wont stop when I tell it to so guess I need to do this upgrade too.

Wolvee

Telling it to stop won't work, you have to press that pedal on the left. Some people Pray at the same time they press the brakes but I'm suspect of this method.

Jbrew

Chris93XLT

Yes I press the pedal and say whoa mule!! (In my Yosemite Sam voice)


My 17 yr old son just cracks up...... But what does he know he drives a civic

Jbrew

My buddy does a good Elmer Fud come hunten season. Just heard it the other day in fact.

Your better get that fixed, you don't end up like Wile E Coyote does most of the time.



_________________________

Your not stopping because of two things.

1. Brake Lines
2. Brake fluid break down.

You can just do this in the front as the rears just assist. Rears are important too, they don't work as hard as the front brakes do.

1. Change the brake fluid. After about 5 years or so, the fluid begins to get contaminated ie , -water. That hinders your Yosemite Sam power.

2. Brake Lines. These lines break down inside. To the point where they blow up like a balloon vs applying pressure to the brake pads. Replace with new. Braided lines are the best, -a little pricey.

3. Factory rotors. These are bad right from the factory. There isn't enough material (steel) to counter heat. They heat up and warp very easily. I went with Brembo's rotors. They are just like factory, but much thicker. I've been running these since 08 and they are still like new. Once in awhile I clean them up with a palm sander. Just had them apart, oh 6 months ago when replacing my half shafts. Still look good, -



4. Calipers. Ford calipers are good, one of the best parts on the factory system, along with the rest of the set up. You can better the calipers by installing steel pistons. Or order new ones with steel pistons. Cardons from Rock auto is who I used.

5. Pads, use lifetime Ceramics w/copper.

You most likely will never have to worry about your brakes again.

Chris93XLT

Sounds good Ill take this list and run with it!!

Question will the front rotors fit the rear? I only ask because I noticed mine have groves cut in them from pads going metal to metal and did not get turned by previous owner. I was wondering if maybe it happened on front and they just swapped them to save money.

This is not my daily driver but I dont have a payment on it ether, so since I have the extra cash Ill be doing full break rehab front and back get things right.

Chris93XLT

Great pic ....did you relocate your oil filter under the front bumper?

Jbrew

Thanks, no the oil filter came that way factory for 97/98. You can hit up a salvage yard and get your own, buy new or aftermarket. Unless your handy and can make one. 319,000 on that truck, w/original motor and trans.