We think you'll agree, stopping is important. It's not glamorous, but if your truck has large wheels, is lifted, or tows something that is valuable to you, upgrading your brakes is a must. For the average truck owner, big brakes may not be a feasible solution to stopping your custom truck. Whether it's the high cost, fear of installation, or simply not knowing the huge benfits, big brakes aren't for everyone. Thankfully, there is a solution that meets in the middle. Much better brake performance can be had without the multi-thousand-dollar investment, and the best news is, you can do it yourself in less than two hours. EBC Brakes is known worldwide as a leader in brake technology and their application list is longer than your favorite restaurant's menu.
| 2004 Ford Ranger Brake Upgrades right Side Angle
Disc and pad upgrades for Chevy/GMC, Ford, Dodge, Nissan, Toyota, Mazda minis or fullsizes are all available. Because of it's incredible coverage, we knew that EBC would have what we needed for our '04 Ford Ranger that we transformed through out Fantastic Four treatment in August of last year. Upgrading from 15-inch to 20-inch wheels quickly taxed the factory brakes and after a few thousand miles, the pads and rotors were toast. One call to EBC had a new pair of 3GD Series Sport Rotors and Yellow Stuff high-performance brake pads. Precision-machined 3GD Series Sport iron rotors are zinc plated and feature wide aperture scraper slots to expel dirt, dust, and gases. They also have drilled holes to prevent heat cracks. Yellow Stuff pads incorporate similar compound technologies from EBC race pads and provide incredible cold "bite," and help lower your truck's stopping distances.
It was a simple upgrade for our little Ranger, but what a huge difference it made. If your truck is in need of a better braking system and you don't want to break the bank, check out EBC's full line of brake components.
FROM THE DRIVER SEAT
The conclusion to any brake story should be reaffirming that the truck stops. Good news, the Ranger stops-and better than ever. Despite the +5 wheel/tire size, pedal feel is superb and during panic stops, the "bite" is rock solid. Brake fade was minimal and besides the heavy dust, the brakes have performed flawlessly. Other bonuses included: No need to bleed the brakes because we didn't open any lines and we haven't had any annoying squealing while slowly coming to a halt. The installation was a breeze and we have money left over in our pocket for more wheel and tire cleaner.
| We called it a day by bolting on the Boss wheels and Continental tires and bedding in the new pads per the instructions.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Time Spent Working: 1 1/2 Hours
Degree Of Difficulty: Beginner
Tools Needed:
Jack, jackstands, torque wrench, 15mm socket and 3/8-inch ratchet, C-clamp, zip ties, wheel bearing grease, rubber mallet, needle nose pliers, seal puller, large Crescent wrench
Parts Used:
EBC Brakes 3GD Series Sport Rotors GD7037
$308.95 (x2)
EBC Brakes Yellow Stuff brake pads DP41617R
$137.95
FoMoCo inner wheel/brake seals
$10.99 (x2)
Total: $777.83
(Prices do not include shipping, tax, or labor)
