When replacing the rotors & drums, I have the new ones turned right outa the box. You'd be surprised at how out of wack they can be, even when new.
I've also found both my trucks to be finicky about wheel nut torque. DO NOT tighten them down completely with an impact.
Only because I have access to brake lathes, & a hoist, I did an experiment when I had these same probs you're having. And I've had 'em, to the point of doing complete brake jobs 2X in a month, trying to eliminate the shuddering.
Tightened the wheels with an impact the same as if a 'pro' tire shop might, right after a brake job, which included turning of the drums & rotors. Drove it 100 miles. The shuddering returned with a vengence!
Pulled the drums & rotors off, & threw them back onto the lathes. ALL needed to be turned to make 'em round again!
When it was all back together, I used a torque wrench to snug the wheels down to 100lbs, then went around 'em all again, torqueing the wheels down to 110lbs, then once again to 120lbs. Yea. I know, just a bit **** retentative, but since I've followed this procedure, the shuddering has been all but eliminated.
I've had tire guys say that this is not required. They've told me that their impact gun was just calibrated (?), or that the 'torque sticks' on the gun are infallible. I don't care. I say use a torque wrench or stay away from my wheels!
SSBC is the only Co. that makes their own rear disc set, that matches their front big brake kit. All the others that I've found make their own big brake kits for the front, but the rear is cobbled from various off the shelf G.M. parts. Not saying that that's not right, or that they won't work, but SSBC's R&D is a bit more advanced than the average 'do-it-yourself' guy. They've developed a specific set of rear brakes for a specific vehicle. And that R&D time ain't cheap!
The advantage to that is having the confidence in your brakes backed up by a respected manufacturer. Piece of mind.
Aesthetically, I like the idea of matching rotors & calipers peeking out from behind the 20's!
But I still haven't made the leap to an aftermarket big brake kit, because like you said, damnnnn, those things are freakin' expensive. The complete four corner system that I've been looking at for a long time, is $3500.00!!! That's more than what I paid for my whole '97!
If you do go to an aftermarket rear disc system, remember that most require a wheel size of 17" or larger.
