Upgrade Your 4Runner Brakes: Remmen Brakes Review

The Crucial Role of Braking in Your 4Runner

When it comes to vehicles as robust and capable as the 5th Generation Toyota 4Runner, effective braking is not just a convenience; it's a critical safety component. As owners, we often push these versatile SUVs to their limits, loading them with camping gear, aftermarket accessories like skid plates and steel bumpers, and tackling challenging off-road terrains. These added stresses, combined with steep inclines and descents, can put a significant strain on the factory braking system. Over time, you might notice a decline in performance, perhaps a spongy pedal or vibrations when braking hard, indicating that the stock setup is struggling to keep up. This is where upgrading to a more potent braking solution becomes not just desirable, but essential for maintaining control and confidence on and off the beaten path.

Introducing Remmen Brakes: A Superior Stopping Solution

Fortunately, for 4Runner enthusiasts facing these very issues, Remmen Brakes offers a compelling answer. Hailing from Ontario, Canada, Remmen Brakes has established a reputation for providing high-performance braking systems for a diverse range of vehicles, from high-speed race cars to essential emergency services. Their expertise translates directly into solutions for the demanding environment faced by the 5th Gen 4Runner. This review delves into why Remmen Brakes might be the upgrade you've been searching for, particularly if you've added significant weight or frequently engage in off-road driving.

Why Consider an Upgrade? The Weight of Experience

The author of this review estimates carrying approximately 1,300 lbs of additional weight on their 4Runner, a figure that includes bumpers, skid plates, and typical camping equipment. While the stock brakes initially managed this load, the signs of strain were undeniable. Specifically, a noticeable vibration during steep descents indicated that the brakes were overheating. Even after replacing the pads and rotors with standard replacements, the problem persisted. This strongly suggested that the OEM components were simply not designed to handle such consistent thermal stress, leading to premature wear and a loss of effectiveness. This is a common scenario for many 4Runner owners who have modified their vehicles for adventure.

Remmen Brakes: Two Kits for Every Need

Remmen Brakes offers two distinct kits tailored for the 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner: the BA400 (Bathurst Series) and the RK205 (Rockies Series). The choice between them largely depends on your typical driving habits and the extent of your vehicle's modifications.

The BA400 Bathurst Series: For the Daily Driver

The BA400 is a ceramic compound brake kit designed with the daily-driven 4Runner in mind. While it offers performance significantly beyond a standard brake kit, its primary advantages lie in reduced dust production and a notably improved initial bite. These are an excellent choice for owners who spend most of their time on pavement, commuting, or undertaking lighter touring, but still want a more responsive and cleaner braking experience. They provide a noticeable improvement in feel without the potential downsides of more aggressive compounds.

The RK205 Rockies Series: For the Serious Off-Roader

In contrast, the RK205 is a heavy-duty, metallic compound brake kit. This is the kit that Remmen officially recommends for the 5th Gen 4Runner, especially for those who have added weight and frequently venture off-road. While this compound might produce slightly more dust and potentially some noise when cold, its performance is where it truly shines. The RK205 offers a far more aggressive bite, providing superior stopping power when you need it most. This makes it the ideal choice for tackling challenging inclines, towing, or navigating demanding off-road trails where consistent and powerful braking is paramount.

Revolutionary Rotor Design: Drilled and Slotted Technology

A key differentiator in Remmen's kits is their rotor design. Unlike the flat, solid surface of OEM Toyota rotors, Remmen rotors feature a cross-drilled and slotted configuration. OEM rotors, while functional for everyday use, lack the ability to efficiently dissipate heat and gasses. This leads to quicker overheating and a higher risk of warping, which manifests as those dreaded steering wheel vibrations during braking.

Remmen's rotors are also treated with a GEOMET coating. This advanced protective layer is crucial for preventing rust, a common issue with many factory and aftermarket rotors, especially in wet climates or after traversing water crossings. This coating ensures longevity and maintains a clean appearance, even under harsh conditions.

Benefits of Drilled and Slotted Rotors:

• Improved Cooling: The drilled holes allow for enhanced airflow, helping to dissipate heat more effectively. This significantly reduces the risk of rotor warping and brake fade, ensuring consistent performance.
• Debris Evacuation: The slots act as channels, scraping away brake pad material and trail dust. This keeps the braking surface cleaner, reducing squealing and maintaining optimal contact between the pad and rotor.
• Enhanced Contact: The tight tolerances between Remmen's brake pads and rotors create a larger and more consistent contact patch. This translates to better braking force, increased resistance to fade, and a more connected feel at the pedal.

Each rotor is sold in pairs, and they are side-specific, meaning you’ll need one set for the front and one for the rear. The packaging clearly indicates the intended side for easy installation.

High-Performance Brake Pads: Engineered for Demands

Complementing the advanced rotors are Remmen's equally impressive brake pads. The RK205 pads, in particular, are engineered to deliver rapid stopping power and exceptional durability. They are designed for even wear, which is crucial for preventing the uneven pad material buildup that can mimic the symptoms of warped rotors. This even wear pattern contributes to a more consistent braking feel and extends the life of the pad.

The design philosophy behind the Rockies pads is rooted in real-world, extreme conditions. They were developed with the demanding requirements of ambulances operating in the Canadian Rockies in mind, areas known for their steep gradients and heavy loads. This translates directly to the challenges faced by 4Runner owners navigating similar terrains in places like the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, with passes reaching gradients as steep as 26%. Whether you're in Canada, California, or anywhere in between, these pads are built to handle significant stress, including towing trailers and boats.

Installation: A Straightforward Upgrade

The installation process for Remmen brake kits is refreshingly straightforward. They are designed to be a direct replacement for the factory components, requiring no special modifications like drilling or cutting. The process is akin to a standard brake and rotor replacement. For the front brake kits, Remmen includes new caliper pin clips and lower springs. While these small parts can often be reused if in good condition, it's always advisable to replace them with new hardware, which is conveniently supplied with the kit. This ensures optimal performance and longevity of the braking system.

For those new to performing brake maintenance, this is an excellent opportunity to build confidence. The most challenging aspect is often dealing with stubborn bolts that may have seized due to corrosion. A good penetrating oil like PB Blaster and a breaker bar can usually overcome these obstacles. For a detailed walkthrough, refer to a comprehensive guide on brake replacement, paying close attention to the specific torque specifications for your 4Runner model, as earlier 5th Gen models may have different requirements for the front brakes.

The Importance of Brake Bedding (Bedding-In)

Once your new Remmen brakes are installed, it's crucial to properly bed-in the brakes. This process involves a series of controlled, moderate to heavy stops from various speeds, followed by periods of cooling. It allows the brake pads and rotors to mate effectively, creating optimal contact surfaces. Without proper bedding, your new brakes may feel less responsive and take longer to reach their full potential. Skipping this step could compromise your ability to perform an emergency stop effectively.

A typical bedding procedure might involve:

• Several stops from 40 mph down to 0 mph.
• Several stops from 60 mph down to 30 mph.

These cycles should be repeated multiple times. Crucially, avoid coming to a complete stop and holding the pedal down during this process, as this can cause uneven pad material transfer and negatively affect the bedding. Allow the brakes to cool between cycles.

Considering a Brake Fluid Flush

At the time of this review, the author had over 70,000 miles on their 4Runner and had also extended the rear brake lines. This prompted a decision to also bleed the brake system and replace the brake fluid. While not a significant amount of air was found, it's a good practice, especially if you've been off-roading or have performed modifications that could introduce air into the lines. Fresh brake fluid ensures optimal hydraulic pressure and consistent pedal feel.

Trail Tested: Real-World Performance in Death Valley

To truly test the capabilities of the Remmen brakes, a trip to Death Valley National Park was undertaken, specifically targeting the demanding Towne Pass. This notorious stretch features a consistent 9% grade over 16 miles, a severe test for any braking system. In previous experiences, the author's 4Runner would exhibit significant shaking on this pass, prompting the need for an upgrade.

During the descent, the author employed a strategy of downshifting to 3rd gear to control speed, minimizing brake usage. However, even with this approach, there were sections requiring sustained braking. The results were remarkable: zero shaking was experienced. The vehicle slowed predictably and effectively throughout the entire descent. Even on a particularly demanding section of the 190 within Towne Pass that requires prolonged braking even in gear, the Remmen brakes performed flawlessly, maintaining their composure and delivering consistent stopping power.

On the dirt trails, the performance was equally impressive. The author noted the absence of the annoying squeaking that had plagued their previous OEM setups, particularly on dusty trails. The combination of the metallic compound pads and the drilled and slotted rotors clearly made a significant difference in both feel and sound.

Final Verdict: Peace of Mind and Superior Performance

The Remmen Brakes and rotors not only provide enhanced braking performance but also deliver a crucial sense of security and peace of mind. Even without a fresh brake fluid flush, the improvement was immediately noticeable. With the addition of approximately 500 lbs of extra weight since the last time in Death Valley, the Remmen components handled everything flawlessly, a stark contrast to the struggles of the factory brakes.

For any 5th Gen 4Runner owner who has added significant weight or frequently engages in demanding driving conditions, whether on-road or off-road, Remmen Brakes should be at the top of your consideration list. They offer exceptional performance across various driving scenarios, proving their worth in everyday commuting, highway driving, and, most importantly, in the challenging environments where off-road enthusiasts spend their time. The author expresses regret for not opting for Remmen Brakes sooner, rather than repeatedly relying on factory replacements that had already proven to be inadequate for their needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are Remmen Brakes compatible with all 5th Gen 4Runners?

Yes, Remmen Brakes offers specific kits designed for the 5th Generation Toyota 4Runner. It's always advisable to double-check fitment with your specific year and trim level when ordering.

Q2: Which Remmen kit is best for me?

If you primarily drive on pavement and want improved responsiveness with less dust, the BA400 Bathurst Series is a great choice. For owners who frequently off-road, carry heavy loads, or tow, the RK205 Rockies Series is the recommended option due to its superior heavy-duty performance.

Q3: Do I need to replace my brake lines when installing new brakes?

While not strictly necessary for a standard upgrade, if your vehicle has high mileage, has been used extensively off-road, or if you've extended brake lines, it's a good idea to consider flushing and replacing your brake fluid and potentially inspecting your brake lines for wear.

Q4: How do I break in my new Remmen brakes?

Proper bedding is crucial. This involves a series of moderate to heavy stops from various speeds (e.g., 40-0 mph, 60-30 mph) without coming to a complete stop, followed by cooling periods. Refer to the "Breaking in Brakes" section for a more detailed procedure.

Q5: Will Remmen Brakes stop me faster?

Yes, generally speaking, the improved pad compound, rotor design, and better heat dissipation of Remmen Brakes, especially the RK205 kit, will result in shorter stopping distances and more confident braking, particularly under demanding conditions.

If you want to read more articles similar to Upgrade Your 4Runner Brakes: Remmen Brakes Review, you can visit the Brakes category.