My brakes

TundraZone2001 · #1 (**permalink**) 04-18-2008, 07:14 PM

lets see the last time I did the whole new pad resurface rotor was at 31K and now i am at 48k and it needs it again or so the tire people at NTW said so!! Is there some sort of brake upgrade i need to look into so i can go alot longer before i need to do repairs. to me its ridiculous!!! I mean if i am gonna be craping out 200 bucks every 17k then i am getting a motorcycle. I have an 04 tundra 4.7L V8. and also is it feasible for me to just buy new pads and do it myself or should i just let the pros do it. I am a college student who is short on cash

Clay

MEvang · #2 (**permalink**) 04-19-2008, 06:45 AM

2004 should have the larger calipers. It is possible that your pads are worn out, but I would not believe what your are being told. Check the pads yourself or have someone you trust look at them.
If they are worn down it is a very simple job to install new pads. If your rotors are smooth and you have no pulsation issues the rotors will not need any servicing. Just install new pads.
What brand of pads were installed last or by who installed them?
Mike

TundraZone2001 · #3 (**permalink**) 04-19-2008, 03:11 PM

the thing is i tend to drive pretty aggressively. Maybe my expectations are too high. I mean i would like to get at least 50k before i do anything with my brakes including my pads. I had a place called Hobbs automotive replace my pads but it was 200 bucks. i have no idea what brand they put in. My steering wheel is starting to vibe a little as i begin to brake. what brand of pads do i need to have installed on the truck???? I thought i was getting a low low low maintenance truck but i guess not!!!

2000LtdKen · #4 (**permalink**) 04-19-2008, 07:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TundraZone2001

the thing is i tend to drive pretty aggressively. Maybe my expectations are too high. I mean i would like to get at least 50k before i do anything with my brakes including my pads. I had a place called Hobbs automotive replace my pads but it was 200 bucks. i have no idea what brand they put in. My steering wheel is starting to vibe a little as i begin to brake. what brand of pads do i need to have installed on the truck???? I thought i was getting a low low low maintenance truck but i guess not!!!

TundraZone,

I think your expectations are too high for a low maintenance $ truck vs the way you drive. "You gotta pay if you want to play, how fast can you afford to go?"

My truck used to get 15k miles on a set of oem pads. I now use Raybestos PG Plus Rotors along with Performance Friction Carbon Metallic pads. Both cost less than Toyota parts which will save you money. I am getting about 30k miles on a set. You should also get some basic tools and learn how to do simple things like brakes and oil changes to save you some big bucks. Tundrasolutions is a great place to get help and learn a thing or two.

HTH,

Ken

MEvang · #5 (**permalink**) 04-20-2008, 08:02 AM

I agree with Ken, if you feel you are rough on your brakes then use a better pad. The Raybestos pad would be a good choice. Since you are feeling some rotor issues replace the rotors also.
Just remember more aggressive pad formulas can cause more rotor wear. But if you do the job your
self and go through brakes less frequently then you likely save money even if you must replace the rotors.
Last but not lest, keep you rear brakes adjusted. These trucks are known for not adjusting well on their own so you must do it manual. Keep the rear brakes adjusted will help with front wear issues.
Mike

TundraZone2001 · #6 (**permalink**) 04-20-2008, 04:37 PM

okay I am gonna take it in tomorrow...do i need to request performance parts at the repair shop or is that something you can only buy on the internet. I am also crunched for time. I wanna learn how to do it...maybe they will be kind enough to teach me how to do it.

-Clay

MEvang · #7 (**permalink**) 04-20-2008, 06:01 PM

Request Raybestos, parts most local parts stores carry them. If not Napa brand are simply reboxed Raybestos. There are Napa stores in every town.
Mike

TundraZone2001 · #8 (**permalink**) 04-25-2008, 04:29 PM

Ha!!! I took it to "my mechanic" and he said the brakes are fine. the pads have over 50% left of material on them. I know they are trying to make money at tire places but that is freakin dishonest. I cant stand dishonest people!!! They dont even specialize in brakes I would take it to them anyway. absolutely ridiculous!!!!!!! My mechanic didnt even charge me to look at the brakes. I offered to pay but he wouldnt accept it...pretty cool!!

-Clay

MEvang · #9 (**permalink**) 04-25-2008, 08:26 PM

I am not surprised. Brake jobs have large profit margins. Three times plus mark up. Tires have very little profit margin not even a 10% mark up in most cases. There just trying to pay the electric bill.... at your expense.

Mike