Overview
The Power Stop Z36-981 rear brake pads are Z36 Truck and Tow disc brake pads for 2003–2007 Jeep Liberty (KJ) and 2003–2006 Jeep Wrangler (TJ and LJ).
Heavier-duty driving is the target: Power Stop designed this pad for towing, hauling and mountain roads. A 17 percent higher coefficient of friction than OE pads is the figure Power Stop gives for Z36.
Key features
- Carbon and ceramic friction formula
- Thermal scorched finish
- Chamfered and slotted like the OE pads
- Powdercoated backing plate
- Noise insulating shims
- Hi-temp lubricant included
- Direct fit with the stock caliper, rear position
Towing and braking load
Pads for towing and hauling work hard. Each stop turns vehicle momentum into heat at the pad and rotor surface, and repeated braking on a grade or with a loaded trailer raises those temperatures quickly. A pad built for that load needs friction material that holds its grip as it heats, plus a backing plate and shim package that keep vibration and squeal in check during long descents. The Z36 Truck and Tow design is aimed at that kind of use, so it suits a Jeep that pulls weight or runs steep mountain roads more often than it makes a daily commute.
Pad swaps rarely happen alone. Rotors that are worn, grooved or below minimum thickness will wear new pads unevenly, so inspect them before installing. Check the caliper slide pins and boots for corrosion and make sure the pins move freely. Bed in the new pads with a series of moderate stops, and avoid heavy braking from high speed until the surface is fully seated. A pulsing pedal, grinding noise or pull to one side can point to a rotor or caliper problem rather than the pads.
Specifications
| Brand | Power Stop |
|---|---|
| Part number | Z36-981 |
| UPC | 792088509123 |
| Product line | Z36 Truck and Tow |
| Position | Rear |
| Caliper | Stock |
| Fit | Direct fit |
| Type | Upgrade |
| Friction material | Carbon and ceramic formula |
| Finish | Thermal scorched |
| Pad design | Chamfered and slotted like OE |
| Backing plate | Powdercoated |
| Shims | Noise insulating |
| Lubricant | Hi-temp lubricant included |
| Coefficient of friction | 17 percent higher than OE pads (Power Stop) |
Vehicle fitment
It fits the 2003–2007 Jeep Liberty (KJ), the 2003–2006 Jeep Wrangler (TJ) and the 2004–2006 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (LJ).
TJ Wranglers built before 2003, the JK Wrangler and the front brakes are not on this list. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Bed the new pads in with moderate stops, and avoid hard towing until they are seated.
What’s included
- Z36 Truck and Tow rear brake pads, part Z36-981
- Noise insulating shims
- Hi-temp lubricant
Not included: brake rotors and calipers.









