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azdryheat · 10-23-2012, 01:02 PM

Not sure why my truck came with ceramic brake pads from the factory but I changed them out today for semi-metallic. I mean, ceramics are fine for around town but I couldn't find any recommendations to use them when towing. I've noticed that the ceramics didn't inspire too much confidence when going down some twisty 6% grades with my trailer in tow.

What I got are Bendix Titanium Metallic II part #MKD784. They went on real easy and don't require much break-in. And the best part is, so far, they are quiet. Can't wait to try out some steep grades.

JIMNLIN · 10-23-2012, 07:46 PM

Hmmm, surprised they were OEM.

Article in Transport Topics some time back says that fleet service mgrs didn't recommend ceramic pads for heavy service on LDT/MDT size trucks. They were seeing more heat related issues with ceramics than premium grade semi-metalics.

This from brakeperformance.com

The Difference Between Semi Metallic and Ceramic Brake Pads

When deciding what brake pads are best for your vehicle, there are many factors to consider. The type of driving, weight of your vehicle and what is recommended by the manufacturer. Premium semi metallic brake pads are perfect for all light, medium to heavy duty cars, trucks, and SUV's. This type of pad is highly recommended for heavy work trucks, towing applications, performance vehicles, European vehicles and any vehicles experiencing warped brake rotor/discs due to excessive heat. These pads are manufactured with a high temperature fade resistance and a high friction level. They are simply the best pads for handling high heat and providing noise free braking. Ceramic brake pads are ideal for medium to light duty US Domestic, Japanese/Korean, Cars, Trucks and SUV's. These Pads are designed to wear longer and have less brake dust than the semi metallic pads. Ceramic pads are NOT recommended for heavy cars, trucks, SUV's or performance vehicles because they do not have a high temperature fade resistance and could warp rotors because of the heat factor. Both types of pads will give you great stopping performance and the information provided hopefully will help you make the correct decision.

azdryheat · 10-30-2012, 03:24 PM

I wonder how much the reduced braking from ceramic brakes affects the towing numbers for our trucks? If the manufacturer used premium semi-metallic pads would our GVWR be higher? Just wondering.

Midniteoyl · 10-30-2012, 03:35 PM

Dust, noise, and longevity matter more to the OEM than increased braking that comes with increased maintenance.

Ray,IN · 11-16-2012, 10:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Midniteoyl

Dust, noise, and longevity matter more to the OEM than increased braking that comes with increased maintenance.

After destroying my OEM ceramic pads and warping the rotors on my dually descending into Skagway, AK., the Chevrolet dealer in Yellowhorse, YT installed aftermarket regular HD pads that stopped better, produced much more brake dust, and operated cooler (his words). IMO, 8,000 miles later, he was correct.

caissiel · 11-18-2012, 09:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ray,IN

After destroying my OEM ceramic pads and warping the rotors on my dually descending into Skagway, AK., the Chevrolet dealer in Yellowhorse, YT installed aftermarket regular HD pads that stopped better, produced much more brake dust, and operated cooler (his words). IMO, 8,000 miles later, he was correct.

I do agree we do have to build our trucks for better performance.
I have done this since 20 years ago.
OEM is for profit and ease of maintenance more then performance. My power was improved with programer. Brakes improved with after market and springs were improved for stability and ride. No air bags for me.
Only questions at border was do you have air bags because my trucks stands great and rides great with my heavy trailer. And 13.35 mpg looks good for me.