2018 Ram 3500 – Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
Working on this 2018 Ram 3500? Run just this one job through Repairius.
No big switch. Write the estimate, text it for approval, and get paid on your phone. Keep everything else the way it is.
14-day free trial · credit card required · cancel anytime
Quick Reference
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Front Pad PN (OEM) | Verify with dealer |
| Front Pad PN (Akebono) | ASP1663 (Pro-ACT Ceramic) |
| Front Pad PN (Bosch) | BE1663H (QuietCast Premium) |
| Front Pad PN (Wagner) | OEX1663 (OEX Ceramic) |
| Front Pad PN (Power Stop) | Z23-1663 (Z23 Evolution Sport Ceramic) / Z36-1663 (Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic) |
| Rear Pad PN (OEM) | Verify with dealer |
| Rear Pad PN (Akebono) | ASP1785 (Pro-ACT Ceramic) |
| Rear Pad PN (Bosch) | BE1785H (QuietCast Premium) |
| Rear Pad PN (Wagner) | OEX1785 (OEX Ceramic) |
| Rear Pad PN (Power Stop) | Z23-1785 (Z23 Evolution Sport Ceramic) / Z36-1785 (Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic) |
| Front Rotor Diameter & New Thickness | 14.17 inches (360 mm) / 1.50 inches (38.1 mm) |
| Front Rotor Minimum Thickness | 1.42 inches (36.1 mm) |
| Rear Rotor Diameter & New Thickness | 14.00 inches (356 mm) / 1.34 inches (34.0 mm) |
| Rear Rotor Minimum Thickness | 1.26 inches (32.0 mm) |
| Caliper Piston Count (Front) | 2-piston |
| Caliper Piston Count (Rear) | 1-piston |
| Caliper Bracket Torque (Front) | 185 ft-lbs |
| Caliper Bracket Torque (Rear) | 148 ft-lbs |
| Caliper Slide-Pin Torque (Front) | 37 ft-lbs |
| Caliper Slide-Pin Torque (Rear) | 37 ft-lbs |
| Brake Fluid Spec | DOT 3 or DOT 4 (DOT 4 recommended for heavy use) |
How to Choose Pads
Choosing the right brake pads for your 2018 Ram 3500, especially given its capabilities as a heavy-duty truck, is crucial for optimal stopping power and longevity. There are three main types of brake pads to consider:
Ceramic Pads
Pros: Known for quiet operation, low dust, and smooth braking feel. They dissipate heat well and are gentle on rotors. Cons: Can be less effective in extreme heavy-duty towing or very aggressive driving compared to semi-metallic pads. Generally cost more. Best for: Everyday driving, light towing, and drivers who prioritize quietness and cleanliness.
Semi-Metallic Pads
Pros: Excellent stopping power, especially in heavy-duty applications and high temperatures. They provide a firm pedal feel and are very durable. Cons: Can be noisier than ceramic pads, produce more dust, and may wear rotors faster due to their metallic content. Best for: Heavy towing and hauling, off-road use, and drivers who demand maximum stopping power and durability.
Heavy-Duty (HD) Pads
Pros: These are often specialized semi-metallic or ceramic compounds designed specifically for extreme towing, hauling, and commercial applications. They offer superior fade resistance and extended life under severe conditions. Cons: Can be more expensive, potentially noisier, and may have a firmer initial bite compared to standard pads. Best for: Continuously heavy towing, commercial use, and owners who frequently push their Ram 3500 to its towing or payload limits.
For most Ram 3500 owners, a high-quality ceramic or a reputable heavy-duty semi-metallic pad will provide excellent performance. Many aftermarket manufacturers offer specific
More specs for the 2018 Ram 3500
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2018 Ram 3500 Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
Browse by make
Running an auto or diesel repair shop?
Compare Repairius to the shop software you're paying for
$99.99/month (first location included), unlimited users, 14-day free trial.