Vehicle Fitment

The PowerStop K8478-36 front brake kit fits:

Ram Applications

• 2019-2024 Ram 2500
• 2019-2024 Ram 3500
• Ram 2500 Big Horn
• Ram 2500 Laramie
• Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn
• Ram 2500 Limited
• Ram 2500 Lone Star
• Ram 2500 Power Wagon
• Ram 2500 Tradesman

Ram 3500 Compatibility

• Single Rear Wheel (SRW) models
• Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) models
• 8x156mm rotor bolt pattern applications
• 8x165mm rotor bolt pattern applications

Always verify fitment before ordering.

What’s Included?

The PowerStop Z36 front brake kit includes everything needed for a complete front brake upgrade.

Kit Contents

• (2) Front Drilled & Slotted Performance Rotors
• Front Z36 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
• Premium Stainless-Steel Installation Hardware

Each component is engineered to work together as a complete braking system.

Why Heavy-Duty Truck Owners Upgrade to Z36

The braking demands placed on a Ram HD truck are significantly greater than those of a standard pickup.

Common Heavy-Duty Scenarios

• Towing travel trailers
• Fifth-wheel campers
• Equipment trailers
• Horse trailers
• Construction loads
• Snowplows
• Oversized wheel and tire setups
• Mountain driving

The Z36 kit was built specifically to handle these conditions.

Z36 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads

PowerStop’s Z36 compound is the centerpiece of the system.

Increased Stopping Power

The carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic formula delivers significantly stronger braking performance compared to many OE-style replacement pads.

Better Heat Resistance

Heavy trucks generate tremendous brake heat when towing or descending grades.

The Z36 compound is engineered to maintain consistent performance under these demanding conditions.

Reduced Brake Fade

One of the biggest benefits of the Z36 system is its ability to resist fade during repeated hard braking events.

Low Dust Formula

Despite its heavy-duty capability, the Z36 compound produces less dust than many aggressive truck brake materials.

Quiet Operation

Premium stainless-steel shims help minimize vibration and reduce brake noise.

Drilled and Slotted Rotor Technology

The included rotors are engineered for severe-duty use.

Improved Cooling

Cross-drilled holes help dissipate heat more efficiently than standard rotors.

Enhanced Pad Contact

Slots continuously clean the pad surface and remove debris during braking.

Consistent Braking Performance

The combination of cooling and pad cleaning helps maintain reliable stopping power under heavy loads.

Aggressive Appearance

The drilled and slotted design also gives your Ram’s braking system a premium performance look behind factory or aftermarket wheels.

Corrosion Protection

PowerStop coats the rotors with Silver Zinc Dichromate plating.

Benefits Include

• Improved corrosion resistance
• Protection against rust
• Extended rotor life
• Better appearance over time

This is especially important for trucks exposed to rain, snow, mud, and road salt.

Ideal Applications

The Z36 Truck & Tow Kit is designed for:

Perfect For

• Towing heavy trailers
• Fleet vehicles
• Work trucks
• RV owners
• Off-road trucks
• Lifted trucks
• Commercial use
• Daily-driven heavy-duty pickups

Installation Benefits

PowerStop engineered the K8478-36 as a direct-fit upgrade.

Installation Features

• No modifications required
• Factory mounting locations
• Complete installation hardware included
• DIY-friendly design
• Direct OEM replacement fitment

Most experienced truck owners can complete installation with standard shop tools.

Performance Advantages Over Stock Brakes

Compared to factory braking systems, drivers often notice:

• Shorter stopping distances
• Better pedal feel
• Improved confidence while towing
• Reduced brake fade
• More consistent braking under load
• Cleaner wheels
• Improved rotor durability

For heavy-duty Ram owners, these improvements can make a significant difference in real-world driving.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Designed specifically for towing and hauling
• Stronger stopping power than stock
• Carbon-fiber ceramic brake technology
• Reduced brake fade
• Drilled and slotted rotors included
• Corrosion-resistant zinc coating
• Low brake dust
• Direct bolt-on installation

Cons

• Higher cost than standard replacement brakes
• Front kit only
• Slight rotor noise may occur under aggressive braking

Final Verdict

The PowerStop Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Kit K8478-36 is one of the best front brake upgrades available for 2019-2024 Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 trucks.

Its combination of carbon-fiber ceramic pads, drilled and slotted rotors, heavy-duty engineering, and towing-focused performance makes it an excellent investment for truck owners who regularly haul, tow, or work their vehicles hard.

If your Ram spends more time pulling weight than sitting in a parking lot, the Z36 kit delivers the stopping power and confidence that heavy-duty trucks deserve.