What kind of brake rotors should I put on my 2002 Sierra?

SonofaSierra02

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I have a 2002 GMC Sierra 2WD with about 58,000 miles on it that I have never done the brakes on. The tell-tale squealing has finally started so I figure 10 years was a pretty good run. I bought new ceramic Akebono pads for all 4 wheels (my truck has disc brakes all around). I want to get new rotors as well, but there are a TON of options and I am not sure where to start. Do you guys have any experience with certain brands or styles (drilled, slotted, etc) that you liked or did not like? Also, should I be replacing my calipers as well? You guys are always a great source of knowledge and I appreciate all of your input.
 
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well i would buy a middle of the road rotors at a napa store or a equael. Not the most expensive price tag but not the cheepest one. You get what you pay for and don't buy the made in china ones:D

Only replace calipers if needed to other wise your just wasting money.
 
I agree, avoid the made in China but good luck finding anything at NAPA that does not come from China. We specifically told the local NAPA store, no made in china so they said we can order you Raybestos. They did and guess what, the box said made in china. We left them at the NAPA store and bought AC Delco which if recall were made in Canada or possible the US but NOT in China. Calling around to every parts store revealed they all stocked made in china brake parts but claimed to be able to order made in US brake parts. But after being duped by the NAPA, we went to the AC Delco shop on the recommendation of one of the store clerks I knew. He admitted to lots of complains about the china parts, mostly from the pro shops. When I asked him why they sell them then, he said $$. Everyone buys on price alone until they get screwed.
 
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I agree with the "you get what you pay for principle." So should I just go with solid style rotors, or would drilled or slotted be a good choice? Also, what other brands besides AC Delco are made in the USA?
 
Question - Why are you buying new rotors ? ( did you have the old ones inspected ? )
 
Do you know if "NAPA ULTRA PREMIUM BRAKE PARTS" are made in the USA? I have always thought NAPA was a bit above the rest, but I honestly do not know where they are made.
 
Drilled or slotted rotors are just going to cost you more money and you really won't have anything better IMO. About all they are good for is bragging.

You need to ask if the parts are Made In China and often the counter clerks really don't know so they might say there are but they may not be. You need to look at the package they come in to know for sure as they are required to list the country of origin if not made in the USA (when purchased in the USA). I found nothing at my local NAPA as far brakes was made in the USA but then again the counter clerk took offense to me demanding made in USA parts because I caught him Bs'ing about that, so they might not been as cooperative as could be. I bought AC Delco and I would suggest you check the yellow pages or AC Delco dot com for a retailer in your area. Note-Ac Delco is the same as GM parts and often much cheaper from an AC Delco retailer or service center. Even then you have to demand made in USA to be sure. Brakes parts made in Canada are good as many GM vehicles are built in Canada such as the Camaro.
 
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Just went into my local NAPA and talked with a very nice guy behind the counter. I asked about if their premium hi performance rotors were made in USA and he said he wasn't sure and would make some calls. About 3 calls later he told me that they were assembled in Illinois but manufactured in China. After thanking him for his time I went home and ordered AC Delco. Now I need to pick up some e-brake shoes and I will be ready to get a little dirty with my brakes this weekend.
 


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