Choosing the Right Aftermarket Disc Brake Pads for Your 1965-1977 Dodge Dart
Before you buy new brake pads, make sure your classic Dart is equipped with disc brakes.
- First, verify your Dart has front disc brakes; many had drums and require a conversion kit.
- For most street driving, a quality semi-metallic or ceramic pad from a brand like Centric or Powerstop is an excellent choice.
- Choose your pads based on your driving style: standard for cruising, performance street for better stopping, and aggressive pads only for serious performance use.
- There are no relevant TSBs or recalls for the 1965-1977 Dart's brakes; information for the modern Dart does not apply.
First, Do You Have Disc Brakes?
Before shopping for disc brake pads, you must confirm your Dart has them. Many 1965-1977 Darts left the factory with drum brakes on all four wheels. Look through the front wheel spokes. If you see a flat, plate-like disc (a rotor) with a caliper clamped around its edge, you have disc brakes. If you see a solid, bell-shaped metal drum, you have drum brakes and will need a conversion kit before you can use disc pads.
Symptoms of Worn Disc Brake Pads
Worn brake pads are a safety hazard and should be replaced immediately. Common signs include:
- Squealing or Screeching: A high-pitched noise that occurs when you apply the brakes, often caused by a built-in wear indicator.
- Grinding Noises: A loud, harsh grinding sound means the pad material is completely gone, and metal is grinding against metal. Stop driving immediately if you hear this.
- Reduced Stopping Power: If your car takes longer to stop or the brake pedal feels soft and spongy, your pads may be worn out.
- Vibration or Pulsing: A pulsing feeling in the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking can indicate worn pads or warped rotors.
- Pulling to One Side: If the car pulls left or right when you brake, it could mean a caliper or pad issue on one side.
No Recalls or TSBs for Classic Darts
Searches for official safety recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for brake pads on the 1965-1977 Dodge Dart do not show any active issues. Information found online for "Dodge Dart brake recalls" applies to the modern 2013-2016 model and is not relevant to these classic vehicles.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Pads for Your Dart
Since Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Mopar pads are no longer mass-produced, you will be buying aftermarket parts. The good news is that modern aftermarket pads often outperform the original 1970s technology. Your choice depends on your driving style.
Brand Tiers & Recommendations
Daily Driver / Standard Replacement:
These pads are perfect for cruising and normal street driving. They focus on quiet operation, low dust, and good performance when cold. Owners on classic Mopar forums often recommend a quality semi-metallic pad for this use.
- Centric Posi-Quiet / C-TEK: Widely regarded as a high-quality standard replacement, offering performance similar to or better than original stock pads. They are known for quiet operation and consistent feel.
- Bendix & Dynamic Friction: Solid choices that provide reliable, OE-style braking for everyday use.
Performance Street:
For owners who enjoy more spirited driving and want a noticeable improvement in stopping power without the harshness of a full race pad.
- Powerstop Z23 / Z17 Evolution: A very popular choice that often comes in a kit with matching rotors. They provide a great blend of increased stopping power with low dust and noise, making them a strong all-around upgrade.
- Hawk Performance HPS: The High Performance Street (HPS) series is a classic choice for increasing stopping power on a street car. They offer a significant bite over stock pads.
- EBC Brakes Greenstuff / Redstuff: EBC Greenstuff is a performance street pad, while Redstuff is a ceramic formula focused on very low dust with great performance.
Aggressive Street / Autocross:
These pads offer tremendous stopping power but come with trade-offs. They often need to be warmed up to work effectively, create more dust, can be noisy, and will wear out rotors faster.
- Hawk Performance HP+: Known for incredible initial bite, making them popular for autocross. However, they are famously noisy and dusty on the street.
- EBC Brakes Yellowstuff: A well-known pad that works for aggressive street driving and light track use. It provides excellent fade resistance at high temperatures.
What About Pad Material?
For most 1965-1977 Dodge Dart owners, a semi-metallic pad is a great all-around choice, offering excellent performance for the price. If you hate cleaning your wheels, a ceramic pad from a quality brand like Hawk or Powerstop is a better option, as they produce significantly less dust.
Cost to Replace Dodge Dart Disc Brake Pads
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Disc Brake Pad Set (Front) | $40 - $190 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $140 - $390 |
Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on your location, the specific brand chosen, and the condition of your brake system. This does not include the cost of new rotors, which are often replaced at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need to replace my rotors too?
You should replace your rotors if they are below the minimum thickness (stamped on the rotor hub), or if they have significant grooves, cracks, or warping (which causes a pulsing pedal). It is always recommended to replace or resurface rotors when installing new pads to ensure proper bed-in and performance.
What's the difference between semi-metallic and ceramic pads?
Semi-metallic pads use metal fibers to provide good stopping power and heat dissipation. They are effective and affordable but can be dusty and noisy. Ceramic pads are made from a denser material that is quieter, produces less dust, and is gentler on rotors, making them a popular choice for street-driven cars.
Is this a good DIY job for a beginner?
Yes, replacing front brake pads on a classic Dart is a relatively simple and common DIY project. You will need basic hand tools, a C-clamp or caliper piston tool to retract the piston, and a jack with jack stands for safety. Always consult a service manual for your vehicle's specific procedure.
What does "bedding in" new brakes mean?
Bedding-in is the process of breaking in your new pads and rotors. It involves a series of controlled stops to transfer an even layer of friction material from the pad to the rotor. This prevents vibration and ensures maximum stopping power. Your new brake pads will come with specific instructions for this process.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 3528017
Fitment depends entirely on the type of brake caliper installed on the vehicle, which could be a factory Mopar single-piston, a factory 4-piston (Kelsey-Hayes), or an aftermarket caliper from a conversion kit (e.g., Wilwood, SSBC). Always verify your caliper type before ordering pads.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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- First, Do You Have Disc Brakes?
- Symptoms of Worn Disc Brake Pads
- No Recalls or TSBs for Classic Darts
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Pads for Your Dart
- Brand Tiers & Recommendations
- What About Pad Material?
- Cost to Replace Dodge Dart Disc Brake Pads
- Frequently Asked Questions
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