Rotors

[Bear_F_ucker]

I want to change my rotors on both of my vehicles this week. Of course my 95 4Runner (2 front) and I have a 98 Grand Cherokee (4 rotors). What would the preference be on rotors ? Cross Drilled, Dimpled, Slotted, Combined, Standard ????? I know I dont want to go ceramic, but I am willing to buy the good **** so dont hold back !
Thanks,

Bear_F_ucker

 

[BucknutBob]

In all the different reading I've done over the years, I can't recall ever seeing strong recommendations for changing the type of rotors on these trucks. Every indication is that the stock design works well. For myself, the only upgrade I would make would be changing the rears to discs, but even that isn't considered a necessity (maybe for those with extreme-size tires?). I believe you need to change the master cylinder to a larger bore model if you go with rear discs (it's been a little while since I checked on that). To summarize, with your set-up, I doubt you would benefit much from a lot of expensive aftermarket brake "upgrades". That's my take, anyway. Best of luck!

 

[KidVermicious]

The last time I looked into upgrading my rotors, the general consensus seemed to be that slotted/drilled rotors really only made a difference in the extremely high end rotors under very heavy use - i.e., racing. I think the best way to get better braking performance is always going to be to get bigger brakes.

 

[the great him]

by drilling and or slotting rotors you are actually removing surface area, and therefore removing its effectiveness. the suface area is what creates friction, less of it means less power. also drilling rotors creates "weak" spots and they become prone to cracking and fatigue. dont get slotted or drilled rotors, just get new quality (solid) rotors.

 

[DC runner]

I tend to agree with what has been said. There is definitely a time and a place for expensive, racing level slotted rotors; but I don't see a 4runner as one.


The best rotor for your vehicles are going to be one built around OEM specs. A nice thick, quality rotor will have the surface area for the best pad pick up and heat distribution. Cheap rotors warp more easily because they tend to be thinner and of lower quality. Makes them more susceptible to heat.

Find yourself a good quality rotor. Re-do the drums in the rear (people like ot ignore them due to PITA it is to re-do them) and you will be fine.

Slotted brakes are awesome when you put them on a brake system designed around it. Unless you redo the entire brake system on the runner, I don't see it giving you anything.

 

[Bear_F_ucker]

Thanks ALL ! Appreciated ! I went with the upgraded OEM standard from Napa !

 

[itgogitrev]

Good call on the OEM rotors. I don't particularly see a practical reason for ever going with drilled rotors. I do have slotted rotors on my other car, but they are also 2pc rotors and the car DOES see HPDEs a few times a year.

But for the 4Runner, keep them standard.

 

[Bear_F_ucker]

Kept it OEM on both vehicles, but have to say it was 1/2 the price to redo my rotors for my grand cherokee rather than my 4runner. Both about same in time to replace ! But over all had a great day under the hoods of both of vehicles. Even had the wife helping on her Jeep !