Brake upgrades for a 1996 suburban 1500

**barryT** · 12-05-2008, 10:41 AM

I just recently started towing a large boat my father in law gave me. I found the brakes especially the front brakes on the suburban to be lacking. Is there any kits or modifications I can do to improve my stopping power?

-barryT

**ct9a** · 12-05-2008, 12:45 PM

Lots of different things you can do, depending on how much money you want to spend.

-Brake pads (I like Hawk)
-Slotted/Cross drilled/dimpled/vented brake rotors
-Over sized master cylinder
-Upgraded calipers (2-6 piston)
-Big brake kit (I like the Baer brands)

Just depends on how much you want to spend, from $20 - $2000.

**04sierracrewcab** · 12-05-2008, 01:07 PM

Originally Posted by ct9a

Lots of different things you can do, depending on how much money you want to spend.

-Brake pads (I like Hawk)
-Slotted/Cross drilled/dimpled/vented brake rotors
-Over sized master cylinder
-Upgraded calipers (2-6 piston)
-Big brake kit (I like the Baer brands)

Just depends on how much you want to spend, from $20 - $2000.

agreed, all are good things
I would go with pads, and rotors.

**r76davey** · 04-20-2009, 12:22 PM

I'm starting with Cross-Drilled & slotted rotors and a good set of pads first!

**vncj96** · 04-20-2009, 12:40 PM

I would start with Steel braided brake lines, even after putting on the new rotors and pads you will still find that they feel is mushy, which is VERY common on older chevys. The steel lines will not allow the expansion under pressure like the rubber factory ones did. BE CAREFUL, the first time you use all of these together, i used to work at a boat landing and marine and a regular customer that i would normall drive his suburban to get them on the river quicker didnt tell me he did a brake udpgrade and being used to the old mushy ones i jammed the brakes and busted my nose on the steering wheel

**r76davey** · 05-01-2009, 01:02 PM

Originally Posted by vncj96

I would start with Steel braided brake lines, even after putting on the new rotors and pads you will still find that they feel is mushy, which is VERY common on older chevys. The steel lines will not allow the expansion under pressure like the rubber factory ones did. BE CAREFUL, the first time you use all of these together, i used to work at a boat landing and marine and a regular customer that i would normall drive his suburban to get them on the river quicker didnt tell me he did a brake udpgrade and being used to the old mushy ones i jammed the brakes and busted my nose on the steering wheel

Already went with the steel braided lines when I did the lift... still has always had a mushy pedal. Front end is shaking like crazy when I hit the brakes now, warped rotor on drivers side!!! Cross drilled /slotted rotors are being delivered today. Will update how much it helps after I get them put on this weekend.