2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty – Brake Pad & Rotor Specs

Quick reference

How to choose pads

When it comes to your 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty, selecting the right brake pads is crucial for optimal performance, especially given the truck's hauling and towing capabilities. Here's a breakdown of common pad types:

• Ceramic Pads: These pads are known for their quiet operation, clean braking (less dust), and long lifespan. They offer excellent stopping power for everyday driving and light-duty towing. However, under extreme heavy loads or prolonged braking, they might experience some fade compared to more aggressive compounds. Ceramic pads are a great choice for most F-350 owners who use their truck for daily commuting and occasional light to moderate towing.

• Semi-Metallic Pads: Semi-metallic pads are a popular choice for trucks due to their robust stopping power and good heat dissipation. They are typically more aggressive than ceramic pads and can withstand higher temperatures, making them a solid option for frequent towing and hauling. The trade-off is they can be noisier and produce more brake dust. If you frequently tow heavy trailers or carry significant loads, semi-metallic pads are a strong contender.

• Heavy-Duty (HD) / Truck & Tow Pads: Specifically designed for trucks like the F-350, these pads (like Power Stop's Z36 line) are formulated for severe-duty applications. They combine the best attributes of semi-metallic pads with advanced friction materials to provide superior stopping power, excellent fade resistance, and increased heat tolerance. These are the ideal choice for F-350 owners who consistently tow heavy fifth-wheel trailers, large boats, or operate their truck with maximum payloads. While they might be slightly noisier and dustier than ceramic pads, the enhanced performance and safety benefits under extreme conditions are well worth it.

Typical service life

The service life of your 2017 F-350's brake pads and rotors can vary significantly based on driving habits, terrain, and whether you frequently tow or haul heavy loads. Generally, you can expect:

• Front Brake Pads: 30,000 – 60,000 miles. Heavier use (towing, city driving) will lean towards the lower end, while highway driving without heavy loads will extend life.
• Rear Brake Pads: 40,000 – 80,000 miles. Rear brakes typically do less work than front brakes in an F-350 unless heavily loaded or equipped with certain towing enhancements.
• Rotors: Rotors can often last through two sets of pads, but it's always recommended to inspect them for wear, warping, or cracking at every pad replacement. Resurfacing (machining) is an option if they are within the minimum thickness specification and not severely damaged.

It's a good practice to have your brakes inspected every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, or at least once a year, to catch any issues early and ensure safe operation. A