Brake Parts Advice

WANTED ADVICE:

I am changing out my brake system (calipers, rotors, pads) on my 2006 Toyota 4Runner. I have the 13WG/319mm brake size.

Awhile back ago I bought rotors and pads and they ended up being for the bigger size 13WH/338mm brakes. I can’t return the rotors or pads.
I also found out I need to change my calipers too cause one of them is sticking. I was looking at just upgrading to the bigger size since I have to buy calipers anyway. I would have to buy new dust shields since the ones I have would be too small.

Would upgrading to a bigger rotor and caliper would show much of a difference?
*In the future I want to be able to pull a small camper. So thinking that it might be wise to upgrade

Should I buy toyota OEM brake calipers?

 

^Typically people upsize the brakes when installing larger tires. If you have 33" or smaller tires, the difference won't be noticeable.

The bigger calipers require 17" or larger wheels. Make sure you have those.

Replacing the dust shields involve temporarily removing the wheel bearings. Make sure you're equipped to remove the axle nut and pull the wheel bearing - not necessarily trivial if the vehicle is seeing this for the first time in almost 20 years.

 

Thank you for the advice! I don’t want to have to remove the wheel bearings so I’ll stick to the size I have now.

Regarding that, I was looking into seeing if I can just rebuild my calipers instead of buying a new one. Do you have any experience with that?

 

Couldn't you just trim the dust shields while they're on?

 

Trimming the dust shields is an option. In northern states the dust shield is typically like Swiss cheese after 20 years lol.

The caliper rebuild kits on Rock Auto don't include pistons. If the caliper is seized, the pistons are probably corroded and need replacement. Weigh the cost of 4 pistons and seal kit vs. a new or reman caliper. Though with replacement calipers, there's potential scope creep if you see the brake hoses and hard line sections damaged or corroded...