Brembo brakes

JB Z71 · June 15, 2017

Any body driven both the regular and brembo brake set up relatively close time wise can give an unbiased review?

Horacio · June 16, 2017

I've been wondering the same thing with no response. I think $2k for big brakes is pretty steep for most and if there's $2k to burn for mods, they're doing something else with the cash.

Spurshot · June 17, 2017

I have the Wilwood 14.25" front kit. I believe it's comparable to the Brembo factory kit. I got this kit before the Brembo factory kit came out. I'm very satisfied. When I put 33 x 12.50 tires on it, the factory brakes just weren't comforting. These brakes really made a difference. If you run 20" wheels, you can use their 16" kit, which should make even more braking power.

Where you'll notice it is in the pedal force and resistance to fade during freeway speed stops, on downhill stops, and stopping when heavily loaded.

I use my truck for hunting, commuting in the burbs of L.A., and vacations. When in the traffic on freeways in L.A., there are many times heavy braking is needed. With the big tires, topper, and bed vault drawers, it needs more braking power than the stock brakes offer. Also, when I load up for a trip, there is a lot of weight added on top of that.

Most people will spend their money making their trucks faster rather than making them slow down better. I have a car that gives me "fast" (SS Camaro with Brembos). Either the Brembo or Wilwood brakes will give you more safety margin in your brakes.

When you put large diameter tires on a vehicle, it provides a longer moment arm (longer lever) which makes more force on the brakes, equating to a loss of braking ability. These large brake kits get back the loss of braking from larger diameter tires.

Yeah, $2k is a lot of money. But so is banging up your truck because you didn't stop in time. I recommend them if you can afford it. If you want to save a few bucks, compare the Wilwoods to the Brembos. There might be some difference.

For guys running 18" wheels, Wilwood offers the 14.25" 6 piston front kit. They also offer a 16" front kit that is similar to the OEM Brembo size.

If you're running 20" wheels, go for the 16" brakes. Bigger is better when it comes to brakes. For 18" wheels, you're choice is limited to the 14.25" diameter. Wilwood also offers a 14.25" 4 piston rear kit.

http://wilwood.com/BrakeKits/BrakeKitSearch.aspx?year=2014&make=Chevrolet&model=Silverado+1500+Pickup&option=6+Lug+-+All

Horacio · June 17, 2017

Thanks Spurshot. That gives me something to think about. I was really dissatisfied with the brakes when I first purchased the truck and continue to be. What really scared me was towing a 6-7000lb mini excavator and trailer. I don't do that a lot, but I'd sure like to feel more comfortable in those situations and during regular driving.

JB Z71 · June 17, 2017

THanks spurshot. Happen to know if the brembo factory kit comes with real discs or drums? If discs, it would be nice if they painted the rear calipers red to match the front.