I have a 1997 Toyota T-100 extended cab 2x4 and want to know what type of brake pads or shoes go on it . I was told that the front were different than the rear and the rear are ceramic pads.

Semi-Metallic The semi-metallic pad is not as popular with motorists these days as it was in the past, and the reason for that is one simple word: noise. The semi-metallic is constructed from steel and other metals, and while it offers good performance and wears out more slowly than the organic brakes, it is also often noticeably louder than the organics. It also tends to wear harder on your rotor, which is another factor you ought to take into consideration. Still, if you don't mind the noise, the semi-metallic is a good all-around brake pad, and usually quite reasonably priced. Ceramic Ceramic pads are generally considered to be the best in quality of the four types of pads. Quieter than semi-metallic, cleaner than the organics, and the composition of the pad allows for a smoother, more consistent braking "feel." They also tend to wear out slower than the other three pads, although their performance is lowered at higher temperatures. They are also the most expensive brand of pad, usually costing up to twice as much as any of the other kinds. Still, if quality is what you're after, and you don't mind paying the extra money for it, the ceramics may be right up your alley