The Ford Explorer ST is celebrated for its robust performance and versatility. However, for driving enthusiasts aiming to push their vehicles to the limit, upgrading the braking system is essential. This guide delves into various brake enhancement options, from simple modifications to comprehensive big brake kits (BBKs), ensuring your Explorer ST delivers optimal stopping power and safety.
Understanding the Importance of Brake Upgrades
While the Explorer ST’s stock braking system is adequate for everyday driving, high-performance scenarios such as spirited driving or track days can expose its limitations. Upgrading the braking system enhances stopping power, reduces brake fade, and improves pedal feel, contributing to overall driving confidence and safety.
Stainless Steel Brake Lines: An Essential First Step
Replacing the factory-installed rubber brake lines with stainless steel braided lines is a fundamental upgrade. Rubber lines can expand under high-pressure braking, leading to a spongy pedal feel and diminished responsiveness. In contrast, stainless steel lines maintain their integrity under pressure, providing a firmer pedal feel and more consistent braking performance. This upgrade is beneficial for both stock and modified braking systems.
Performance Brake Pads and Rotors: Balancing Cost and Efficiency
Upgrading to performance-oriented brake pads and rotors can enhance braking performance without the need for a full BBK. Options like the PowerStop Z23 Evolution Sport Brake Kit offer drilled and slotted rotors paired with carbon-fiber ceramic pads. While these components improve heat dissipation and reduce brake fade, it’s important to note that they may not significantly shorten stopping distances compared to OEM components.
Big Brake Kits (BBKs): Comprehensive Solutions for Maximum Performance
For those seeking substantial improvements, investing in a BBK is the most effective approach. BBKs typically include larger rotors, multi-piston calipers, and high-performance pads, collectively enhancing braking power, reducing fade, and improving pedal feel.
Shelby GT350 Front Brake Kit with Adapter Brackets
A popular and cost-effective BBK involves adapting the Shelby GT350’s front braking components to the Explorer ST. This setup utilizes the GT350’s 6-piston calipers and 15.5-inch rotors, requiring adapter brackets for proper installation. This upgrade offers significant improvements in braking performance and aesthetics. However, compatibility with rear GT350 brakes is limited due to differences in electronic parking brake systems.
Shelby GT500 Front Brake Kit with Adapter Brackets
For those seeking even greater braking capabilities, the Shelby GT500’s front brake components can be adapted to the Explorer ST. This setup features massive 16.5-inch rotors and 6-piston calipers, providing exceptional stopping power. Adapter brackets are necessary for installation, and wheel spacers may be required to accommodate the larger components.
SuperForged Comprehensive Brake Kit
For a complete front and rear upgrade, the SuperForged BBK offers a tailored solution for the Explorer ST. This kit includes 405mm front rotors with 6-piston calipers and 380mm rear rotors with 4-piston calipers, along with stainless steel brake lines and all necessary mounting hardware. An optional integrated parking brake caliper is available, enhancing functionality and reducing unsprung weight. This comprehensive kit delivers substantial improvements in braking performance and visual appeal.
Rotora Big Brake Kit
For enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance and willing to invest accordingly, Rotora offers BBKs featuring 8-piston front calipers and 4-piston rear calipers. While these kits provide exceptional braking capabilities and bragging rights, they come at a higher price point compared to other options. The performance benefits, while significant, may not surpass those offered by more cost-effective solutions like the SuperForged kit.
Considerations for Wheel Compatibility
Upgrading to larger brake components often necessitates consideration of wheel size and fitment. Larger rotors and calipers may require the use of wheel spacers or aftermarket wheels with appropriate clearance. For instance, the GT350 brake upgrade may require 3/4-inch spacers with stock wheels, while 1-inch spacers can provide a flush fitment with the fenders.
Installation and Professional Assistance
While some enthusiasts may have the skills and tools to undertake brake upgrades themselves, professional installation is recommended for BBKs to ensure safety and optimal performance. Proper installation involves precise mounting, bleeding of brake lines, and calibration of electronic systems, particularly when integrating components like electronic parking brakes.
Conclusion
Enhancing the braking system of your Ford Explorer ST is a strategic investment in performance and safety. Whether opting for stainless steel brake lines, performance pads and rotors, or comprehensive BBKs, each upgrade contributes to a more responsive and confident driving experience. Careful consideration of your driving needs, budget, and compatibility with existing components will guide you to the most suitable braking enhancements for your Explorer ST.
For a visual guide on installing GT500 brakes on the Explorer ST, you may find the following video informative:
