Who's got more information on what I've read before about upgrading the front brakes on a 1998 1500 by installing heavier duty factory brake components? I just don't remember what level or year.

I've swapped out my rear axle for one with discs, and I plan on changing up to a Hydrobooster. I figure the next area to address when I do that is the front brakes.

Thanks.

 

I did it using Dodge Ram 2500 brake calipers. I went with the 8800lb calipers. They work well. My truck is a 1997, so I asked for the calipers to a 1997 Dodge Ram 2500. Got them at NAPA, they come already pained black.

 

You can only put the 2500 calipers on if you have single piston. Forget when they went to dual piston but then you can't swap them out directly.

 

I *think* that happened in 2000 on the 1500's. When I went to buy calipers for my truck, they wanted to sell me dual piston calipers..... mine are not.

 

So I can get calipers from a 1998 2500? Do I upgrade the rotors too? Knuckles the same I suppose?

 

I put 7500 GVW ones on my 97 1500 which are 2500 "light duty" calipers. Bigger piston by a few millimeters, can't remember how much but they did help the truck quite a bit. Make sure to get pads specifically for a 7500 GVW truck if you do this swap as the pads for a 8800 GVW 2500 are thicker and will NOT fit. Not sure what you are running for wheels but this setup still clears 15" rims

 

I have 20" wheels from a 2008 Ram.

How do I tell the guys behind the counter that I want the 8800 GVW calipers? Is it an option in their system?

 

Yes, that should be an option in their system, but to see it, you will likely have to tell them that the parts are for a RAM 2500.

 

It would be smart to bring a caliper as well. 1500's had 75mm pistons, 2500 light duties had 80mm pistons and 2500 HD / 3500's had 86mm pistons.

 

Did any of them have larger diameter rotors for the 5 lug 1500 4x4 hub?