When the average outdoorsman thinks about enhancing the performance of his 4×4, he often focuses on accessories designed to make the engine perform better. In other words, more power. But for those who load their vehicles to carrying capacity drive in the mountains, or tow heavy trailers, it’s also a good idea to think about better ways to stop.
Factory brakes do a good job within the limits of their design, but sportsmen often push these brakes to the limit, and sometimes beyond. If you’ve ever experienced brake fade on a steep mountain pass or had a trailer push the truck past a stop sign, you know what I’m talking about. What can you do besides gritting your teeth and gripping the steering wheel?
To find out, I dropped by The Progress Group, a company that specializes in suspension and brake upgrades. The proprietors are a pair of trout-fishing fanatics, Jonathan Spiegel and Jeff Cheechov. “When most outdoorsmen decide to modify their truck or sport utilit the last things—if they give them any thought at all—are the brakesr says Spiegel. “This is unfortunate because many modifications directly affect braking system performance. Let me give you an example: The most popular modification is a set of new tires and wheels. Typically, the guy wants larger tires and wheels. Well, that adds weight, and extra weight makes the brakes work harder. And when they work harder, they produce more heat, and then we have a problem.”
“Brake pads and shoes are designed to operate properly over a broad range of temperatures says Cheechov. “But if the brakes get too hot, brake fade can occur. You’ll know it when it happens because the pedal starts to feel real finn, and no matter how hard you step on the pedal the truck doesn’t want to slow down. It’s a real white-knuckle feeling!” According to Spiegel and Cheechov, sportsmen who want to improve brake performance have three options:
1. Increase the friction between the brake pads and rotors (disc brakes) or the shoes and drums (drum brakes).
2. Improve the cooling ability of the brake rotors and drums.
3. Improve your ability to modulate the brakes.