changing rear drum brakes to disc brakes

Converting Rear Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Upgrading from rear drum brakes to disc brakes can dramatically improve your vehicle's braking performance and safety. Disc brakes provide quicker stopping power, better heat dissipation, and reduced brake fade, making them a popular choice for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. This article will guide you through the benefits of this conversion, the necessary tools, and a step-by-step process for successfully completing the upgrade.

Benefits of Upgrading to Disc Brakes

1. Improved Performance Disc brakes offer superior stopping power, especially in high-performance conditions such as racing or heavy towing. Their design allows for better heat management, leading to less brake fade over extended use.

2. Enhanced Safety With increased braking efficiency, disc brakes provide better control and responsiveness, improving overall vehicle safety. This is especially important during emergency stops.

3. Maintenance Advantages Disc brakes are generally easier to maintain than drum brakes. They are less prone to moisture retention, which can cause corrosion and decrease effectiveness over time.

4. Aesthetic Appeal For many car enthusiasts, the look of disc brakes can enhance the overall appearance of the vehicle, adding a sporty feel that drum brakes simply cannot match.

Tools and Materials Needed

- New disc brake kit (rotors, calipers, pads, brackets) - Brake fluid - Wrench set - Socket set - Jack and jack stands - Brake cleaner - Torque wrench - Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

1. Preparation Start by securing your vehicle on a flat surface. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels before lifting the vehicle with a jack. Ensure that the vehicle is supported with jack stands for safety.

2. Remove the Rear Wheels Once the vehicle is raised, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

3. Detach Drum Brakes Remove the brake drum by taking off the retaining screws or clips. Carefully pull the drum off, exposing the brake shoes and hardware. Remove the brake shoes, springs, and any other components attached to the drum.

4. Install the New Disc Brake Components Follow the instructions provided in your disc brake kit. Begin by attaching the new brackets to the rear axle, ensuring they are securely fastened. Then, install the new rotors onto the wheel hubs, ensuring they sit flush.

5. Mount Calipers Attach the calipers according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the brake pads are properly positioned within the caliper. Ensure that all components are tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

6. Reassemble and Test Reinstall the rear wheels and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Pump the brake pedal to seat the brake pads against the rotors, and check the brake fluid level. If necessary, top off the brake fluid to the recommended level.

7. Final Checks Before driving, double-check all components for proper installation and tighten any loose bolts. Take the vehicle for a test drive, starting at low speeds to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Converting rear drum brakes to disc brakes is a rewarding project that can enhance your vehicle's performance and safety. With meticulous planning and attention to detail, this upgrade can be completed in a relatively short amount of time. Enjoy your enhanced braking system and the peace of mind that comes with increased safety on the road!