When you tow a trailer, your car’s brakes are put under more pressure than usual. This is because the trailer and vehicle need to stop at the same time. The stress on brake pads can cause uneven wear or even damage if not taken care of carefully. That's why you need the best brake pads for towing.
Brake pads make it possible for you to stop and start your rig from any condition, whether it's on a level surface or going up a steep grade. In this article, we will discuss the best brake pads for towing on the market today.
Product | Name | Editor's Rating | Check Prices |
---|---|---|---|
ACDelco Gold 17D1367CH Ceramic Front Disc | 5 out of 5 | ||
Power Stop K2164-36 Front & Rear | 5 out of 5 | ||
Callahan CDS02409 | 4.5 out of 5 | ||
Wagner SevereDuty SX1400 Semi-Metallic | 4.5 out of 5 | ||
Bosch BSD1363 Severe Duty | 4 out of 5 |
Our Top 10 Brake Pads for Towing
Brake pads are an integral part of a vehicle’s braking system and help the driver control the speed and trajectory. It is important that the best Brake Pads for Towing are durable, as they don't always perform as well as new ones at first use and can deteriorate as time passes.
The search for the best brake pads for towing doesn't have to be a challenge, thanks to our curated selection of the top products.
1. ACDelco Gold 17D1367CH Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
ACDelco Gold (Professional)Ceramic Brake Pads offer a superior alternative to Original Equipment Parts (OE). These brake pads have been engineered to resist corrosion and premature wear.
They provide exceptional performance and come with noise-dampening Shims, where applicable.
These products offer peace of mind as they have been independently tested with SAE J2784 standards to determine braking effectiveness and noise, vibration, durability, and wear testing to assure quality.
Ceramic formulations use less metal and provide high-quality braking power in quiet, low-dusting packages.
There is no need to cure. ACDelco Gold (Professional Ceramic Brake Pads) works right out of the box without prepping or curing!
They are made to fit your needs for form, function and fit. This makes them ideal for safety-sensitive driving like e-driving.
ACDelco Gold (Professional) Ceramic Brake Pads can be installed straight out of the package!
ACDelco Professional parts meet all your requirements for function as well as form. As a result, they are a smart choice for General Motors vehicles and many other types of vehicles as well.
For example, ACDelco Professional parts might have been previously known as ACDelco Gold Professional.
The best brake pads for towing should not only take into account the material, but also the manufacturer. If you are unsure about a part, always ask the company.
Highlighted Features:
- High quality ceramic formulation to meet standards.
- Less metal provides high-quality braking power in a minimally dusting package.
- No curing is required; they work right out of the box!
- Fit, form, and function meet your needs without compromising safety when driving an RV.
- Backed by the GM name for added assurance of quality.
2. Power Stop K2164-36 Front & Rear Z36 Truck and Tow Brake Kit
You want to tow, but you don't need all the extra weight of a large set of brakes? Any avid adventurist worth their salt knows that long hours on the highway can be tough with your vehicle's braking system.
The Z36 Truck & Tow Performance Kit provides superior brake performance and is highly sought after by Tow/Haul enthusiasts.
If you add weight to your vehicle by towing a trailer, carrying a load, or adding larger wheels and tires, it can affect the operation of your stock brakes.
These conditions could exceed the stock braking system's capabilities. This kit has perfectly matched components, which provide torque to increase wheel size or load without compromising daily drivability.
They use proprietary carbon-fibre ceramic materials for immense strength combined with refinements in the standard ceramic compounds.
Carbon Fibers of power stop brake pads are rich in conductivity, meaning they are extremely thermally efficient, reducing wasted energy by nearly 50%, meaning longer wear and quicker heat up times!
Along with drag racing style slotted rotors, excellent cooling is accomplished through our unique style of drilling.
Combined, these features provide superior low dust braking, outperforming leading competitors by 30% in on-vehicle testing!
Longer wear and less time sitting around waiting for your vehicle to cool down means more adventure time for you!
The drilled and slit wheel brake rotors will reduce heat so brakes can perform at their full potentials, while Z36 Extreme Truck & Tow Brake Pads provide extra stopping power when needed with little or no brake dust.
The Power Stop brake pads offer superior stopping power for those who tow trucks, haul loads, climb mountains, or play in harsh conditions.
These brake lubricants also contain heat-resistant ceramic brake oil to prolong the life of your rotors and keep them quiet, providing smooth stopping power for all your adventures.
Highlighted Features:
- Easier on your brakes
- Utilises proprietary carbon-fibre ceramic materials for immense strength combined with refinements in the standard ceramic compounds.
- As a result of their Carbon Fibers' high conductivity, they are extremely thermally efficient and save nearly 50% in wasted energy.
- Brake pads provide superior stopping power when needed with little or no brake dust.
- Z36 Extreme Truck & Tow Brake Pads provide extra stopping power when needed with little or no brake dust.
3. Callahan CDS02409
Truck drivers who want a braking system that is suitable for use on the road and off the road, this product works for you.
The Callahan Brake Parts Store specialises in car and truck parts, including those who drive towing vehicles.
For truck drivers, the best type of brake pad to use is one with a ceramic design. The CDS02409 brakes will provide excellent stopping power and torque at any speed.
Their brake pads are created from a unique formula that provides long-lasting reliability and reduces noise and dust.
Not only do they sport innovative cooling systems that keep the brakes in peak condition but also excellent screeching noise reducers that maintain stealthy silence even when pushed hard on or off-road; this perfect fare-maker in heavy-duty driving.
Ceramic makes our braking system quieter than metallic systems like most cheaper brands offer today.
The large slotted rotors and vented pads offer consistency even in high thermal conditions like mud and debris over poorly maintained roads littered with construction trap doors along mountain paths near the Rockies.
With the weight of your vehicle and trailer behind you, added stopping power is also needed as they include four drilled steel rotors with each kit to ensure quality braking performance every time.
The product includes a 4x 350mm front pad & 348mm rear, 8x stainless steel hardware, 4x 6-lug drilled front vented rotors (350mm), and 4x 6-lug rear vented rotors (348mm).
The product is easy to install with professional installation help if required. Do not forget to lubricate the brakes regularly with oil for peak performance.
If you haven’t yet replaced or upgraded your truck brakes, it could be because you don't know what type is best suited for laden loads; stop by soon at Callahan!
This product is for truck drivers who want to haul off-road, thru mud or down trails.
Highlighted Features:
- Compatible on the road and off-road
- It comes with a unique formula, which provides long-lasting reliability with a reduction in noise and dust.
- Each kit includes four drilled steel rotors to ensure quality performance on or off the road.
- Includes 8 stainless steel hardware for installation, so you don't have to buy anything else.
- Easy to install; all you need is to follow the instructions very carefully.
4. Wagner SevereDuty SX1400 Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pad Set
Severe duty brake pads are engineered to provide excellent braking performance under the most extreme conditions.
This dependable and long-lasting friction product has an exceptional life, high-temperature performance, wear characteristics that make it even surpass stringent enforcement standards.
It's designed to meet the demands of vehicles and fleets in harsh environments. It is made with a semi-metal carbon-based friction material that was developed in-house to provide long-lasting performance.
OE-style on-vehicle testing has been rigorously tested to ensure the best braking performance in all conditions, including extreme heat, frequent stopping, and heavy loads.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards are much stricter than other countries' vehicle safety laws, including China's.
This means for the customers that if you need a durable brake pad that will stop your car in any situation, these are the ones for you.
It comes with riveted shims matched by OE engineering, so there are no surprises there either!
It has a carbon-enhanced, metallic disc brake pad, so it will be the best brake pad to meet your car's specific requirements today.
Wagner brake pads are powder-coated to deliver maximum protection. In addition, all the brake pads feature our ultra-hardened steel wool formula, which is not scratchable or scoring discs.
The product features a Wagner OE25 Zero copper friction formulation, which is completely lead-free. You can also use the OE style shims and slots to make it fit perfectly with factory brakes.
It is a great choice for your vehicle because it includes premium stainless-steel hardware for key applications.
You have two options: either replace your brake pads yourself or hire a professional.
So, Purchase these durable and reliable brake pads for your car or truck, no matter where you drive.
Highlighted Features:
- Made with semi-metal carbon-based friction material that was developed in-house to provide long-lasting performance.
- Have been rigorously tested at OE-style on-vehicle testing to ensure the best braking performance in all conditions.
- The powder-coated backing plate delivers maximum protection.
- It includes premium stainless steel hardware for key applications.
- It has a carbon-enhanced, metallic disc brake pad, so it will be the best brake pad to meet your car's specific requirements today.
5. Bosch BSD1363 Severe Duty Disc Brake Pad
Bosch Severe Duty Brake Pads are ideal for people who need to stop quickly and have excellent braking performance all around.
They are the most advanced in friction technology for quiet operation, long life, and best-in-class performance.
The low profile design of this pad is engineered, manufactured and available on cars across America.This brake pad is semi-metallic and ceramic with copper-free friction to last long under demanding conditions.
Bold claims are made on these materials, given their more frequent stopping points. Bosch brake pads are recommended by the manufacturers for vehicles that have to stop and go frequently or carry heavy payloads.
They are not advised for drivers who still reside in an area where they will never find themselves pushing the pedal into the ground more than once every 2 miles or so.
It has OEM looking multi-layer shims, slots and chamfers that install easily for best fitment on platform-specific braking systems. It also comes with synthetic lube so that the installation process will be hassle-free!
The set includes 2 pads in a paper inner wrap to provide extra protection.
The Bosch Severe Duty brake pad technology provides quiet operation, best-in-class performance and long life, making it one of the best brake pads for towing.
These pricey but high-quality pads are manufactured by Bosch specifically with heavy-duty applications in mind and come complete with synthetic lube, loading shims (where needed), slots, screw hole chamfers (where appropriate), and 100% North American manufactured materials.
These pads are perfect for vehicles that have to stop and go frequently or carry large payloads. In addition, they’re ideal for driving conditions that require most of your vehicle's brake system.
They are engineered, tested and manufactured in North America.
They should be replaced as a set and come complete with all necessary hardware for easy replacement.
Highlighted Features:
- Comes complete with synthetic lube, loading shims, slots, screw hole chamfers, and 100% North American manufactured materials.
- This brake pad is semi-metallic and ceramic with copper-free friction to last long under demanding conditions.
- Bold claims are made on these materials, given their more frequent stopping points.
- It has OEM looking multi-layer shims, slots and chamfers that install easily for best fitment on platform-specific braking systems.
- Bosch Severe Duty brake pad technology uses the most recent friction technology for quiet operation, best-in-class performance and long life.
6. Motorcraft BRSD1680 Pad-Brake
Your vehicle's brake system is an important safety and performance component. It protects you by allowing your vehicle's emergency stop or slow down in an emergency.
This system is made up of many components. Defective or worn parts can limit your ability to stop. Brake problems can be caused by brake pads, shoes, brake calipers and rotors.
Motorcraft brake pads are your best choice if you need quality brake parts for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury. Ford Motor Company founded Motorcraft in 1972.
It is the most trusted manufacturer for vehicle-specific parts for Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles.
The company offers a wide range of premium automotive parts, including A/C compressors, alternators, wiper blades, and wire sets.
The products are manufactured to exact specifications and have been subject to extensive laboratory testing and on-the-road testing.
You can find a wide range of brake parts, from drum brake shoes to wheel cylinders, drum brake adjusting springs and self-adjusting repair kits. These parts are direct replacements for factory parts. It can be used as an OEM replacement.
Also, It meets Ford Motor Company strict standards and a high-quality alternative to aftermarket brake parts. It is a premium product because it combines safety and durability.
It uses proprietary friction formulas specific to each application and high-tech materials like ceramics and semi-metallic (as applicable). It's designed to fit perfectly in your car.
These are made specifically for your vehicle and do not require any modifications. To ensure reliability, each unit is designed to balance safety and durability. Motorcraft brake components meet Ford Motor Company standards.
Highlighted Features:
- It meets Ford Motor Company strict standards and a high-quality alternative to aftermarket brake parts.
- The company offers a wide range of premium automotive parts, including A/C compressors, alternators, wiper blades, and wire sets.
- These are made specifically for your vehicle and do not require any modifications.
- To ensure reliability, each unit is designed to balance safety and durability.
- Motorcraft brake components meet Ford Motor Company standards.
- It's designed to fit perfectly in your car.
7. Hawk Performance HB299P.650 SuperDuty Brake Pad
The Hawk Performance HB299P.650 SuperDuty brake pads are made to withstand the towing and hauling of heavy loads. In addition, high-Performance Street compounds have a lower coefficient of friction than stock brake pads.
They can provide 20-40% greater stopping power and resist brake fade than any other brand. You will also have a smoother pedal feel and more consistent performance.
This pad is durable and won't wear out often. As a result, it is ideal for fleet trucks.
You need brakes that can stop your truck regardless of how steep or heavy the terrain is. This is why the Hawk Performance SuperDuty Brake Pads HB299P.650 are so useful!
This brake pad is ideal for heavy-duty trucks and SUVs that carry large payloads. It features a specially formulated compound to provide increased braking power and high fade resistance.
The SuperDuty Brake Pads are able to withstand high temperatures and still provide consistent braking power. This means that you won't have any problems with your brakes going downhills.
It's important to ensure you have a top-of-the-line brake pad in your vehicle when you're hauling or towing. Don't let the chance of a slow, or worse yet, no braking power frighten you when you have to stop.
With the Hawk SuperDuty Brake Pads, you get the ability to stop your vehicle in a hurry and feel safe while doing so.
Highlighted Features:
- High-Performance Street compounds have a lower coefficient of friction than stock brake pads.
- They can provide 20-40% greater stopping power and resist brake fade than any other brand.
- These heavy duty brake pads for towing are durable and won't wear out often, making it ideal for fleet trucks.
- The Hawk heavy duty brake pads are ideal for heavy-duty trucks and SUVs that carry large payloads.
- These best brake pads feature a specially formulated compound to provide increased braking power, fade resistance, and enhanced braking power.
- The SuperDuty Brake Pads are able to withstand high temperatures and still provide consistent braking power.
8. EBC Brakes DP41815R
As a tow truck driver, you know how much it relies on the safety and ability of your brakes.
Whether you're trying to stop in time before an accident occurs or need to make it through tricky turns quickly enough to avoid damage, all eyes are on your brake system when they should be looking at the road (or their phones).
Your job is hard enough without managing malfunctioning parts. Instead, keep yourself safe with high-quality brake pads from EBC Brakes.
EBC Brakes DP41815R is the perfect combination of performance, value and style for your car.
This brake system is designed to give you maximum braking power in hot weather and stop distances on slippery surfaces like ice, snow, or sand.
You don't have to worry about getting stuck. This unique combination also allows for high friction with new brake pads.
They won't wear as quickly because their cold rating doesn't heat up until after using them (approximately 20-30 minutes after applying brakes).
EBC's new line of braking systems can help get you back rolling safely after breakdowns more often than ever before!
Through years of testing by fleet operators, these products have been proven effective both inside city limits and in wide-open rural areas.
When you want to make a statement about backing up your high-performance truck, carrying a heavy load, or going fast on a rough road, these best brake pads can provide that edge you need.
EBC Greenstuff brake pads offer up to a 40% increase in brake life over other brands, thanks to the ceramic blended material they're constructed.
This means you can get more use out of your truck's brakes before needing to make a costly replacement.
Redstuff brake pads are made with a unique Ferodo design that helps generate increased stopping power when applied.
For trucks weighing more than eight tons and capable of travel speeds of more than fifty-five miles per hour, these are the best brakes for Towing.
So stop worrying about your safety and start tackling the road in front of you with total confidence!
Highlighted Features:
- High-performance truck brakes for high-performance trucks
- Brake pads designed for trucks weighing more than 8 tons
- Designed to maximise safety through years of testing by fleet operators
- Towing packages offer 40% more brake life than other brands.
- Ferodo design helps generate increased stopping power when applied
- Stop worrying and start tackling the road in front of you with total confidence
9. Bendix Fleet Metlok MKD1770FM Brake Pads
Do you need a set of quality brakes for your fleet or pursuit vehicle? Then, Bendix Fleet Metlok MKD1770FM Brake Pads are the ones! Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems is your trusted braking solutions provider.
These pads are extremely resistant to heat and fade so that they can withstand harsh conditions.
Bendix has the brake pads for any towing job you can think of.
With a range from Fleet MetLok premium, a heavy-duty line designed specifically for heavy hauling and frequent stopping or Passenger all-season performance linings on your mid-sized vehicle, pick the perfect braking pad for your every need.
Bendix's new proprietary rubber compound with patented PolyMatrix Rubber Technology is robust yet soft on rotors that provide a smooth pedal response in ALL driving conditions!
These pads also have friction formulas that were created by our team.
They offer components such as brake pads, drums, and shoes for medium and heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and other commercial vehicles that can withstand severe duty operating conditions.
Fleet MetLok disc pads are designed to reduce stopping distance with a reliable design.
Each component features press-fit metal shims to resist lining plate separation and maximises noise reduction with OE style slots and chamfers, plus top-notch shims included in order to assure installation time will be minimal.
With the brake pads from Bendix, you're getting a product that is built with safety in mind. Make it a priority to be safe and comfortable when you tow with these best brake pads.
They are specially designed to withstand heavy hauling and frequent stopping, the severe duty brake applications. In addition, for fleets of any size, they offer a complete range of best brake pad material for towing.
It is a proven pad-to-rotor interface that delivers quiet performance in all driving conditions. Specifications for OEM-driven machining that provides smooth pedal response under all driving conditions.
Bendix premium brake pads can do all of these things and more because they are made to last.
Highlighted Features:
- They are specially designed to withstand heavy hauling and frequent stopping, the severe duty brake applications.
- For fleets of any size, they offer a complete range of best brake pads and discs.
- It is a proven pad-to-rotor interface that delivers quiet performance in all driving conditions.
- Specifications for OEM-driven machining that provides smooth pedal response under all driving conditions.
- Bendix brake pads work and more because they are made to last.
10. Goodyear Brakes GYD1602
When you need to tow, your brakes must be in top shape. If not, you run the risk of overheating your vehicle and risking accidents. That's why you need a good set of brake pads for towing.
At Goodyear, we have everything you'll need with our Carbon Ceramic Rear Brake Pads Set.
These brake pads are specifically designed with the driver who needs their truck for hauling in mind; a high-performance pad made just for you from the experts at Goodyear!
Goodyear brakes are engineered to give you maximum stopping power, control, and safety. In addition, Goodyear's patent technology can reduce noise and keep the brake system effective.
This is because they are used on different surfaces every day for hours. It's designed to not only stop cars from braking but also keep them safe in an emergency.
Good year engineers put in a lot of effort to ensure that customers get the best safety possible from their vehicle's wheels.
It's so great being able to trust your life on something that's been rigorously tested by experts like us! You can feel safe knowing these will withstand any advances in technology over 4 years since they were invented!
They're also designed to keep noise to a minimum so that you can focus on your drive. Getting these brake pads is easy too! With all the parts included, you'll have your rear disc brake pads in no time.
With your product, you get all the necessary brake pad kit to get the job done and get your new best brake pads working.
You can handle this installation just fine on your own, but if you have any issues, expertise from our customer service team is only a phone call away!
Highlighted Features:
- Increased stopping power in rear brake pads.
- Easy installation by the individual towing
- Designed specifically for towing purposes
- They're made for towing vehicles.
- Fit easily and work quickly.
Understanding Brake Pads:
As a brake system component, brake pads are extremely important. To slow down your car, friction is created between the brake rotor and the brake pads. In simple terms, it converts kinetic energy into thermal energy, which is why your brakes get hot.
To understand the best brake pads, let's first examine each fundamental component of them.
Friction block
Friction blocks slow down the rotor (or brake disc) by contacting them.
The friction blocks are made up of powders, fibres, lubricants, fillers, and abrasives bound by resin.
Underlayer
The next layer consists of a resin underlayer that bonds the friction block to the backing plate.
When brake pads are worn down to the underlayer level, squealing noises are made by sensors attached to the brake pads (called 'squealers'). In this way, you can tell when friction material has worn down.
Adhesive
It generates a great deal of heat when you brake. The adhesive must be heat and pressure-resistant for the friction block to adhere to the backing plate at these constant, extreme temperatures.
Backing Plate
Best brake pads are supported by the backing plate. A steel plate is used when the brakes are engaged to apply even clamping pressure across the friction block.
Shim
Using the shim on the backing plate of the brake callipers, the noise level and vibration.
We now know the basic components of a brake pad. Next, let's look at a short history and then, types of brake pads available.
Factors to Consider
Many opinions exist about which brake pads make for the most effective towing brakes. However, everyone agrees that it is a smart idea to evaluate the critical characteristics of the pads before making a purchase.
Controlling Capability
Two factors directly affect a vehicle's controlling capability: its velocity and weight. A vehicle's stopping power depends on its weight and velocity. It takes more stopping or braking power to slow down or stop a moving vehicle.
Fully-loaded towing trucks travelling at high speeds need more stopping power than lighter-laden ones and can stop at slower speeds.
The friction coefficient of a product should allow you to determine its stopping power. The coefficient of friction equals the effort required to pull a material along a flat surface divided by its weight.
You will experience a decrease in stopping power if the friction factor for the brake pads that you select is too low. Conversely, the wheels will lock up when braking is applied if the coefficient of friction is too high.
The performance-oriented linings offered by brake manufacturers are commonly referred to as performance streets. These pads have higher stopping power and pedal sensitivity, which is why they are so popular.
Noise
As you engage the brake, the system would make noises due to friction, but some brake pads would prove quieter than others. For a quiet brake system, ceramic brake pads are important to get, as well as paying attention to other brake pad characteristics.
Dimensions
This includes overall length and breadth, as well as design elements like slots and chamfers. These dimensions and design elements reduce vibration and thus noise.
Angled Chamfers are used to reduce damage to discs or brake rotors. Additional grooves and slots on pads, brake rotors or discs aid in breaking surface gas film during high temperatures. This increases the pads' resistance to fading.
Shim
Brake shims can only be attached to the pad's backplate to provide noise control. However, a high-quality brake shim can prevent brake noise throughout the life of the job.
Take a look at the shim material that is on the backside of the pad. Remove the shim material from the back of your pad and place it on a flat surface. If the shim sounds like it is making a "thunk", it is made of good material.
However, if the shim makes a rattly sound when it hits the floor, it won't make good sound insulation.
Seasoning:
Some brake pads claim to transfer or leave a layer on the rotor's surface. This "seasoning" can be used to smoothen the rotor's surface and reduce noise and excitation when braking.
Lining
When the brake is applied, the brake lining is the section of the brake pad that contacts the brake rotor. Look for premium "riveted linings" from brake pad manufacturers that offer low noise braking and minimal brake dust.
Further information on riveted and bonded brake pad linings is available below.
Brake Dust
Brake dust is caused by friction between the pads and the brake rotor. Brake dust is created when the abrasion substance of a brake liner is carbonised at normal braking temperatures.
Although brake dust is not likely to cause brake system problems, it can harm your vehicle's paint and wheels. Breathing brake dust can eat away at the aluminium alloy surface of your wheel if it is not cleaned regularly.
Backing Plate
Before we get to the next characteristic, brake pads, it is important to understand the importance of your vehicle's backing plate. The vehicle's backing plates can have unexpectedly large impacts on the braking performance and noise level.
Backing plates are used to secure the components of your braking system in place. The system will not work correctly to stop your car from simply pushing down on the pedal.
The backing plate is what supports the brake pads and must be strong and sturdy. If the backing plate is flexible, this means that the brake pads are not fully in contact with the rotor. This can result in brake stops taking longer and a softer pedal feel. However, it also increases the possibility of making an unwelcome noise.
Pay attention to the thickness of your backing plate as well as the edges. Poorly stamped backing plates will be rough in appearance. You should also inspect the area where the pad touches the calliper. These areas should be as smooth and clean as possible.
It is important to know how the brake pads are attached to the backing plate. Safety-critical vehicles, such as school buses may require a brake pad with a mechanical attachment that attaches to the backing plate. For this purpose, some backing plates may have small hooks on their surface.
Bonded
Bonding is characterised by a high-density adhesive and the high-temperature attachment of the friction material to the base pad.
This is accomplished as more material is provided as to the effect of the pad contact with a rotor after sealing the lining.
In fixed joints no flexibility has emerged like rivets. Also, for noise issues that occur with rebonded pads, you can fix it as you replace them with riveted ones.
The product serves long thanks to this technique. The product can be used up to the close of the cycle. We recommend that we don't ignore the lining wear until a disc pad reaches the rotor.
Friction
Having a brake pad that maximises friction gives you maximum handling while towing. But high friction also means that the brakes work well when needed.
Ultimately the goal is to utilise the power of friction to produce reliable traction. The brake pedal can be important for traction, particularly when causing braking.
Riveted
This brake assembly connects the lining to the pad using either copper or aluminium rivets. This allows for vibration to be absorbed and noise reduction through flexing between pad and lining.
For secure attachment, riveted pads allow for a quarter to one-third of the thickness of the lining to remain below the rivet. Riveting is more durable than bonding and can be used at high temperatures and mileage.
Riveting is the most popular method for attaching linings. Semi-metallic pads almost always use riveting.
Brand
While you can get brake pads from many manufacturers, it is best to stick with the most well-known brands. This is because reputable brands only offer high-quality products and prompt post-purchase support to their customers.
It is a wise decision to buy pads from well-respected brands rather than buying from less-recognized manufacturers. Although products from well-respected brands can sometimes disappoint, they are still superior overall.
Cost
When it comes to quality, stay away from dirt-cheap products. Likewise, you should avoid cheap products that are not of high quality.
Finding the best brake pads, however, does not require extreme measures. It's important to remember that not all brake pads are created equal.
You can easily find affordable models that will fit your towing setup by investing some patience and energy.
Additional Tips:
Longevity of the Supplier
Sales would continue year by year and past customers would continue to buy a good product. Unfortunately, you won't get much use out of an inexpensive product that is not of high quality.
Nobody will stick for a product that breaks or doesn't improve their ride. However, a little research beforehand can be used quickly to eliminate all the problems later on.
Look for Upgraded Lining
Ideally, best brake pads should be used for daily driving rather than towing or transportation. The upgraded lining is mostly for better efficiency. It's perfect because it has higher stopping power and pedal response.
Many performance brake pads offer less brake dust because they can resist carbonisation until they are heated to a higher temperature.The best lining delivers minimal dust and noiseless brakes.
Quiet Operation and Low Prices
These brake pads for towing are ideal for those who want to save money without sacrificing quality.
Even though automakers promise quiet driving, some consumers have reported squeals and noises. Everything you need for replacement, installation or repair is included in the kit.
You'll need to pay extra money to fix the error, although not always silent drive. However, the pads have minimal assembly and are simple and easy to clean without difficulty to install.
Heat Dispersion
Ceramic brakes are prone to overheating and are vulnerable to expansion or contraction due to temperature change.
A corresponding slot adjustment allows the pads on the headstock to last a long time and reduces the amount of damage they cause.
These rooms let the heat escape to the location of brake pads. Ceramic brake pads with non-ceramic surfaces are susceptible to damage from overheating.
Different Types of Brake Pads:
Brake rotors, brake callipers, and brake pads make up the braking system for a car. Brake rotors, made of steel and iron, are metal discs. They attach to the axles which are the components that turn the wheels.
Brake callipers are clam-like components that contact the brake rotors for towing on both sides to create friction.
Brake calipers clamp to both brake rotors and the brake pedal when you apply pressure to the pedal.
Brake calipers come with pads to improve braking efficiency and reduce wear on expensive brake systems. To slow down the brake rotor, these sacrificial pads are placed on both ends.
Brake pads of all types affect the braking performance, even the best brake pads for towing.
There are many pros and cons to each type of brake pad, so it is important that you consider your priorities when deciding which brake pads are best for towing.
Organic or Non-metallic Brake Pads:
Organic or Non-metallic brake pads are made from natural materials like rubber, glass, and silica, bonded with resin. Sometimes, there will even be Kevlar in the mix.
Organic brake pads are softer than ceramic pads. This is what people love about them. Organic brake pads will make your brake pedal very quiet when you press down on it. In addition, brake pads are very cheap to manufacture, making them affordable for most car owners.
Organic is best for those primarily confined to driving around the local area and don't drive long distances. These brake pads for towing are easily worn and produce more brake dust than other materials.
They also provide superior stopping power and resistance to wear while delivering 49% less noise than the other types of brake pads.
Semi-metallic Brake Pads:
Semi-metallic brake pads are the most common type of brake pad. They provide dependable stopping power, along with low dusting and medium noise production.
Semi-metallic brake pads often go by the name "metallic brake pad". Metallic brake pads for towing are made from steel, iron, copper and composite alloys. They offer superior braking performance in all weather conditions.
Because metal is a good conductor, the pads in this category can withstand heat well and cool rapidly. Unfortunately, this makes them less wearable than ceramic brake pads.
Semi-metallic pads of high quality contain fine metallic fibres, while pads of lower quality have smaller, more coarse amounts.
Semi-Metallic brake pads have much better brake speed because the metal has excellent heat conductivity.
With the best brake pads for towing, you can stop faster, and your brakes will cool faster after use. This also helps maintain your brakes and avoid scratches.
Ceramic Brake Pads:
Ceramic brake pads can be one of the most costly types of pads. But you get what is paid for. Ceramic brakes last longer than non-metallic and semi-metallic pads, perform better, and produce less brake dust.
A typical ceramic pad includes ceramic fibres and various other ingredients like carbon (or graphite) and metals.
Ceramic brake pads are known for making little noise and generating very little brake dust. In addition, they are quieter than other brake pads, making little to no additional sound when applying the brakes.
Ceramic brake pads are solid options for average towing operations.
Ceramic pads may not be appropriate in every circumstance. Before purchasing ceramic pads, make sure you read the owner's manual.
These best brake pads for towing are more costly than other types because of higher manufacturing costs. This makes them less popular among budget-minded drivers.
This type of brake pad offers a smoother and quieter ride while still providing safety and improved fuel performance for your automobile. On top of all that, ceramic brake pads also require less servicing time!
Carbon Fiber Brake Pads:
The newest and most expensive type of brake pad is the carbon fibre pad. These pads are made up of a carbon mixture with embedded fibres. They are often found on high-end vehicles such as race cars and aircraft.
These high-performance brake pads are dependent on their surface area due to their strengths for a high-friction coefficient. In addition, the wide size offers a better-stopping force at lower temperatures.
They work far better at low temperatures than steel or stainless steel brake pads for towing do but may wear quickly if exposed to high-temperature changes.
Though carbon fibre brakes offer better-stopping power, they require less initial force to stop the vehicle than steel or stainless steel brakes do.
The biggest advantage to carbon fibre brake pads is that they are much lighter than aluminium ones. They also have a lot more durability and wear resistance.
The downside to them is that they cost more than aluminium brake pads for towing, but it's worth the investment because you save money in the long run. They also can be installed on any vehicle, so there's no need for extra modifications.
Copper-free or Low-copper: An Analysis of Brake Pads
Semi-metallic brake pads are mostly made of metals such as steel, brass, copper, and bronze. Copper has been a traditional component of ceramic brake pads.
Copper is an excellent friction medium as it rapidly dissipates heat. This improves braking performance. However, copper can be toxic to fishes and other aquatic life.
In addition, copper fibres generate brake dust from the heavy duty brake pads and can get deposited into streams and rivers as they wear out. This can cause damage to the wildlife living there.
California and Washington enacted new regulations to address the problem at the start of 2021. In either state, it is illegal to install brake pads with more than 5% copper. By 2025, both states will require brake pads that are free of copper.
Ceramic or Semi-metallic for Towing: What’s the Difference?
You should now be leaning towards semi-metallic or ceramic brake pads based on your driving style and driving conditions. Make sure you only choose the things you don't want to compromise on. Let them help you make your final decision.
However, as we have said, no one brake pad is perfect in all situations. The debate over semi-metallic vs ceramic brake pads is a compromise. You'll have to pay more for quiet, clean stops.
You'll need to clean your wheels once a week if you want an extreme temperature brake bite. This is how it works.
Ceramic brake pads are quieter, have cleaner wheels and last longer due to their harder construction. They have a lower cold bite, making them less effective in cold weather and before the brakes reach temperature.
They also have a lower coefficient than semi-metallic brake pads (the higher the coefficient, the better the brake pad will stop your car).
They are not designed for extreme performance or racing brake pads. This is the truth. Ceramic materials are a much better heat sink than metallic counterparts. Instead, they act almost as an insulator.
The pad's ability to absorb heat is affected by how much heat is retained in the brake rotor and other components. This can result in increased temperatures throughout the brake system.
Semi-metallic pads are more noisy and dusty than semi-metallic ones, but they're still more versatile. For example, they perform better at higher temperatures and have a higher thermal threshold.
Ceramic brakes have a better cold bite, but metallic brakes are more effective than ceramic brakes. They also maintain a consistent friction characteristic throughout their operating range.
Semi-metallic brake pads will be the best choice if you plan to drive your car on a racetrack or a fast mountain run.
Ceramic or organic pads are great for city driving, highway driving, commuting or driving the kids around the town. They also offer excellent stopping power and have the added benefit of being quieter, cleaner, longer-lasting, and more durable.
Brake Pad Replacement Warning Signs
Brake pads should be changed every 50,000 miles as a general rule. However, different cars have different needs, and you may need to replace brake pads if you see certain warning signs.
Squealing Sounds
Driving in the middle of nowhere with the windows rolled down and the radio off. Suddenly, a buzzing or scraping sound can be heard in the relative calm.
Furthermore, you notice that the mysterious noise goes away when you hit the brakes, only to return when you let off the pedal. Why is this happening?
In modern brake pad manufacturing, wear indicators are incorporated. Unfortunately, they are designed solely to emit the unpleasant screech you just heard.
Brake pads are usually equipped with wear indicators in the form of metal tabs situated near the top.
The indicator will scrape against the rotor when the brake pad itself wears down to a dangerous level. In addition, it creates a distinct grating noise that signals the driver that their current brake pads are on the verge of eroding completely.
Audible Clicking
Brake pads are sometimes held in place by one of these special devices in some cars. With other vehicles, clips, bolts, and pins keep them steady.
This design is aimed at keeping the brake pads secure at all times. However, it is possible for them to begin to rattle if they become loose (perhaps after a part of the surrounding hardware is damaged). Thus, the brake pedal triggers a clicking sound when pressed or released.
The Vehicle Will Take Longer to Stop
There is a term for this phenomenon; it’s called brake fade. Most often, it's caused by intentionally applying the brakes over a large distance without stopping the car all the way.
It may be necessary to perform such a manoeuvre occasionally, especially when driving down a mountainside or on a winding road.
It will, however, take a toll on your braking mechanism over time if you regularly do this, for example, if you live in a hilly area and need to periodically drive downhill.
The brake pads and brake rotors become hot due to long, uninterrupted contact. Therefore, friction between them becomes less effective over time. Because of this, your car will not come to a full stop as quickly as it did in the past.
Braking Causes Your Car to Pull to One Side
It's not always the same rate of wear for each set of brake pads on your vehicle. It is not uncommon for individuals on one side to become thinner faster than others.
In this scenario, the car may pull left or right slightly once the brakes are applied.
By leaving the problem unchecked, you'll cause unnecessary stress on your steering rack (as well as the ball joints, knuckles, and wheel bearings in your vehicle).
You shouldn't take a chance: Have a mechanic look at the problem immediately.
Brake pads may not necessarily cause this particular symptom. Malfunctioning brake calipers or uneven tire pressure may cause the problem, as well.
Nevertheless, two new brake pads should be installed in one session if unevenly worn brake pads are the culprit.
Pressing the Brake Pedal Causes Vibration
Upon pressing the brake pedal, does it vibrate strongly? Then, you will likely have to replace your brake pads. A binder resin is typically used to hold brake pads together.
The adhesive in brake pads wears down and gets hot as they wear down, which results in smearing on the rotor. A layer should form that is evenly distributed over the disc's surface under ideal conditions.
The resin, however, may not be evenly distributed on a brake pad that has been overheated. These vibrating brake pedals are the result of a condition called glazing.
Pedal pulses aren't a sign of trustworthiness. This problem could interfere with your brakes' ability to perform safely if it goes unchecked. Keep your brake pads in good condition by staying safe and not procrastinating.
A Brief History of Brake Pads
Let's review the history of brake pads quickly and painlessly.
Disc brakes, which use callipers to compress brake pads on each edge of a wheel's rotor, were common in the 1950s and 1960s when asbestos was the preferred material for brake pads.
Aside from being heat resistant, durable, and effective, asbestos is relatively cheap compared to other materials. Besides being unhealthy, it is now widely known.
In the wake of the increased awareness about the hazards of asbestos, the pads began losing popularity, and manufacturers were forced to find alternatives that were as effective but more affordable.
In response to their needs, they developed three types of pads: metallic, semi metallic, and organic.
A Brief History of Towing Service
Tow trucking service is a simple way to make the world go around. Although tow trucking is not something we often think about, it is essential to our lives. It's rare that we ever think about the modern world without tow trucks. We will change that today.
In desperate times, you need to take desperate measures. 1916 was the year. Ernest Holmes, a Chattanooga mechanic, was faced with an unusual task. He had to retrieve a Ford Model T that belonged to his former professor.
The car had been lost and he had driven off the road. It ended up in a stream. Six men took eight hours to retrieve the car. They also used countless blocks and rope as props and tools. The car was finally saved.
Holmes began his research to develop a simpler way to recover vehicles.
He created a crane-pulley system and attached it to his 1913 Cadillac. Although this seemed promising in theory, his new towing system was not stable enough to allow him to retrieve vehicles.
He was determined to improve his towing design and added outriggers to stabilise and support his new invention.
FAQs:
1. Can We Reuse Brake Rotors?
No, brake rotors are made of metal and cannot be reused. They have to wear out before they can be replaced or re-machined.
2. Are Front and Rear Brake Pads Interchangeable?
Yes, you can swap brake pads. Brake pads are designed to be replaced in pairs so that the other side matches the wear of one side. This helps to provide even wear and smooth stopping.
3. Do all Cars Have the Same Size of Brake Pad Discs?
It depends on the need and weight of the vehicle; pick-up trucks will need stronger brakes than sedans. Same applies for RV brake pads. Although most standard cars will have brake pad discs that are 8 inches, trucks and SUVs can be a little bigger.
4. Is it Necessary to Replace Brake Pads Regularly?
There is no specific time frame; if the car isn't braking properly, it's time to replace them. The owner's manual will have a recommended time to change the brake pads.
Some brake pads have wear indicators that can indicate something wrong with your product or the sensors that turn on the warning light that it's time to repair your brake pads.
If there is damage in the rotor and when applying the brake you feel the vehicle moving, or there's a heat source to the engine, then it's time to replace rotor brake pads. You might need around 30,000, depending on how much mileage you covered.
5. Are Drilled and Slotted Rotors Good For Towing?
Rotors are the device that comes together to bind to the axle of the rear wheel, which initiates the slowing process. Unfortunately, an application like towing sometimes puts excess pressure on the rotors.
The slots and drills allow for release and cool-distance of the brakes. The result reduces the probability that the task will collapse. They are, therefore, a good choice for towing.
6. Why do My Brake Pads Unevenly Get Worn?
Uneven brake pad wear happens when your brake pads are angled. This can be caused by inconsistencies in the thickness of your brake pads. It can also be caused by the curvature of the brake pad surface. If you have a faulty rotor, it can cause uneven wear of your brakes.
If you think that a faulty rotor causes the issue, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible for repairs. Also, if you believe that one of your brake pads is thinner than the other, contact a mechanic to see if they can replace it for you so that they'll both wear evenly.
7. Are Ceramic Brake Pads More Likely to Wear Out Rotors than Other Types?
Ceramic brake pads are ceramic-based brakes for cars, trucks, and other vehicles. They are often the best choice when there is a need for increased stopping power; for instance as RV brake pads.
The truth of the matter is that not all rotors deteriorate at the same rate. However, there are some differences in how other types of brake pads wear out the rotor.
Ceramic brake pads are not designed to slow down braking at high speeds because they do not use the brakes at all.
This means that drivers will have to go through an adjustment period while using these brake pads if they wish to maintain their speed while applying pressure on the brakes.
This will result in more stress on the brakes but could be warranted for different uses.
Conclusion
When you purchase new brake pads for your tow vehicle, make sure that they are designed specifically with heavy-duty use in mind.
This means that the brake pads have a higher resistance against wear and tear. As a result, they can stop your car better when pulling a trailer or boat behind your tow vehicle.
We hope this blog post has given you some helpful information about the best brake pads for towing and will assist you in your future buying decisions.
Tom Hank says
For first-time customers, locating the best brake pads for towing may appear to be a difficult task. Thank you for providing this information.
Michale says
Welcome