Brake upgrade for towing with a 97 Explorer

Of course, there have to be brakes on the trailer for those to work. :-)

I'm a freak for towing safety. So taqke this in the spirit it's offered... If you're going to upgrade the brakes, upgrade them as though you mean it. A matched system that actually increases braking over stock isn't cheap, but it can be a life-saver. Something along the lines of a Brembo upgrade with bigger rotor (more swept area, more braking action, longer life, less fade) will do wonders. If you really don't want to spend that kind of money, you could switch to ceramic pads, for longer life, less fading.

Your Explorer will already brake hard enough to activate your anti-lock system, so in reality, more won't do you much good, as far as that one emergency braking maneuver is concerned. What you are probably looking for is less fade over longer braking applications, like going down grades. Ceramic pads should handle that nicely, really. Just keep speeds lower where extended braking is expected, and don't worry about the idiots who want to go faster. Remember that downshifting (even shifting out of OD) will provide engine braking, often (on Interstates) eliminating the need to brake at all. Enjoy the trip!

Of course, U-haul won't rent you a trailer anyway.