[JuicedDakotaRT]

These pictures were taken for jrp1588 but figured id post them up for everybody in case somebody is interested in this kit. The first picture is the new rotors from TSM and the calipers after i painted them. the second is right after install. The last ones i shot today, so ignore the dirt and surface rust. I do not have any pics of the brackets by themselves. They have black paint on them because i had to shorten the threaded bosses for the caliper slide pins, this was manufacturer error and i did not feel like waiting by shipping them back. Besides the brackets being white, i was extremely happy with this kit and highly recommend it.

 

[jrp1588]

Thanks man, those look so much better than big ugly drums. Definitely doing this in the spring!

 

[nitrohog]

Looks like a nice kit, where did you get it and how much was it?

 

[JuicedDakotaRT]

tsmmfg.com

i dont use my ebrake so i ordered the calipers without parking brakes. for NEW calipers, New rotors machined to clear the brackets, the brackets, hardware, instructions, stainless lines and shipping was about $490. I also changed my axle bearings, seals, and diff fluid and replaced some brake lines. so i spent more than that lol

 

[jrp1588]

Any harm is using some remanned calipers from autozone? They are selling some duralast ones for $20 each unloaded.

I can get some EBC greenstuff pads on ebay for $67 shipped add in the $40 for calipers, and I'd be spending $107 and probably getting some better quality pads. Unless they already ship with good pads, then my point is moot.

 

[hskrRT]

What has to be machined on the rotors?? And does that mean you always have to buy replacement rotors direct from them, or have a local machine shop machine them to specs.

 

[jrp1588]

I think there was a thread about this months ago, and it was decided you would have to do just that.

 

[deanler]

cool, stop alot better? I'm looking to do some disc brakes on my truck too but not until I can figure out a line lock

 

[JuicedDakotaRT]

The calipers came with pads, but i am unsure as to their composition, but are holding up just fine under heavy braking.

hskrRT- the opening on the backside of the rotors needs to be opened up. i am unsure as to the dimensions off the top of my head, but yes when they need to be replaced they will have to be purchased through TSM or stockers taken to a machine shop and opened up some.

 

[jrp1588]

I emailed them about the pads they use. I don't want to go through the trouble of the sway just to throw on some junk pads. If nothing else I can save another $20 by going with some EBC ultimax pads, I have them on the front and they do a good job.

 

[jrp1588]

After some digging, I've found calipers for $40, and pads for $40. So That's $80 vs $120 buying it from them. With the savings, I might even upgrade to slotted and dimpled rotors. Then again, $400 total seems a lot easier to swallow than $480 for some reason.

Edit: According to TSM's summport people, the calipers come loaded with generic semi-metallic pads. I think I'll be supplying my own pads and calipers.

 

[1995dak]

The kit seems to go together well. Here is a pic of just the brackets.

I didn't have to clearance anything. Mine is an 8.25 though.

 

[JuicedDakotaRT]

i had to grind down the threaded bosses on the caliper bracket. TSM sent me brackets with 1/2" bosses when they are supposed to be 1/4". i called them up when shit didnt fit and they were very nice about it and offered to help, but i didnt feel like waiting for shipping so i marked a line around them halfway and grinded them to that line, chased the threads and shot some paint on them. only issue i had, but i didnt even mind, gave me something to do lol

 

[Kingst3r]

looks pretty good, how do they perform?

 

[JuicedDakotaRT]

A LOT better than the stock drums

 

[2YuNg2Di]

Is this a straight bolt-on? No welding?

 

[jrp1588]

As I understand it, the hardest part is that you have to remove the axle shaft. Not entirely sure how to do that, but the OP tells me it's not bad.

 

[JuicedDakotaRT]

no welding. you do have to remove the axles to get the stock backing plate off though. which is an obvious rear diff oil change. and while pulling the axles its a good idea to replace the axle bearings and seals

 

[Fryertuck]

i had to grind down the threaded bosses on the caliper bracket. TSM sent me brackets with 1/2" bosses when they are supposed to be 1/4". i called them up when shit didnt fit and they were very nice about it and offered to help, but i didnt feel like waiting for shipping so i marked a line around them halfway and grinded them to that line, chased the threads and shot some paint on them. only issue i had, but i didnt even mind, gave me something to do lol

Will 15" rims fit over these? nice work man...

 

[JuicedDakotaRT]

I am not sure if 15"s will clear. if you call TSM they might know, the older gentlemen who works there designed this kit for his own dakota, so if hes available he should know