Overview
The Baer Brakes Claw front rotor set, part number 53012-020, is a pair of zinc-plated, cross-drilled and slotted replacement rotors for the front axle of the 2003–2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 and the 2006–2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Mega Cab with 8-lug wheels. Each rotor is a direct replacement part, designed to take the place of the original front rotor on those trucks.
The Claw front rotor uses a slotted and drilled friction surface. The openings let gases and dust escape from between the pad and rotor while braking, which supports steadier pedal feel and less brake fade. The zinc-plated face gives the rotor a bright look behind open center wheels.
Key features
- Slotted and drilled friction surface to release gases and dust from the pad-to-rotor interface
- Enhanced vane structure and premium materials, presented by the maker as suited to cooling and durability
- Mill balanced, direct replacement design supplied as a pair
- Chamfered cross-drilled holes intended to reduce stress cracking
- Zinc-plated finish for open center wheels
- Vented rotor with a directional brake surface
Pairing with the rear brakes
On these trucks the front brakes do most of the stopping under load, so front rotor wear shows up sooner than rear wear. Pads wear quickly under towing, and a rotor that is grooved or thin will shorten pad life.
When replacing front rotors, look at the rear brakes too. Mismatched front and rear wear can change how the truck stops in a panic stop, so inspect the rear shoes or pads and their drums or rotors at the same visit.
Cast iron rotors respond well to a clean, flat hub surface, and a quick check of the wheel bearing play helps prevent vibration after the install.
- Compare front and rear pad thickness before buying
- Replace the front pads with the rotors
- Check wheel bearing play and tire balance after installation
Specifications
| Brand | Baer Brakes |
|---|---|
| Part number | 53012-020 |
| UPC | 844165003762 |
| Axle | Front |
| Rotor construction | One piece, full cast |
| Material | Cast iron |
| Surface type | Slotted x drilled |
| Solid or vented | Vented |
| Brake surface | Directional |
| Disc finish | Zinc plated |
| Stud/lug hole quantity | 8 |
| Mounting bolt hole circle diameter | 165 |
| Outside diameter | 352.81 |
| Overall height | 101.8 |
| Discard thickness | 34 |
| Emission code | 6 |
| Grade type | Premium |
| ABS tone ring included | No |
| Sold as | Set |
| Country of origin | CN |
Vehicle fitment
The rotor fits the front axle of the 2003–2008 Dodge Ram 2500, the 2003–2008 Dodge Ram 3500 with the single or dual rear wheel setup, and the 2006–2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Extended Crew Cab Pickup with the Mega Cab and 8-lug wheels.
This part is for the front axle only. Check your year, model, trim and rear wheel setup against the coverage above before ordering.
Installation notes
The Ram 3500 entry carries a note for single or dual rear wheels, so confirm your rear wheel setup matches that note before selecting this front rotor. The set is sold as a pair and includes both front rotors. Brake rotor work affects stopping ability, so have the job done by a qualified technician who can also inspect the pads, calipers and hub.
What’s included
The kit includes a pair of direct replacement Claw front rotors.
Not included: The ABS tone ring, which is not included with this set.
