convert brake drums to rear disc

Converting Brake Drums to Rear Discs A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to enhancing the performance and safety of your vehicle, one of the most effective upgrades is converting rear brake drums to disc brakes. While brake drums have been a traditional choice in many vehicles, particularly older models, disc brakes offer several advantages, leading car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike to consider this upgrade. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this conversion and the steps involved in the process.

Advantages of Rear Disc Brakes

1. Improved Stopping Power Disc brakes generally provide superior stopping power compared to drums. The design of disc brakes allows for better heat dissipation, which enables them to maintain performance under heavy braking. This is particularly important in situations requiring sudden stops or during aggressive driving.

2. Enhanced Heat Management Brake drums tend to retain heat, which can lead to brake fade — a reduction in stopping power due to overheating. Disc brakes dissipate heat more efficiently through their vented design, maintaining consistent performance even under demanding conditions.

3. Less Maintenance Drum brakes can require more frequent adjustments and maintenance, as the shoes wear down and may need to be replaced more often than disc brake pads. Additionally, disc brakes are typically easier to service, as replacing pads is usually a more straightforward process than dealing with the complexities of drum brakes.

4. Improved Pedal Feel Many drivers report a more responsive and predictable brake pedal feel with disc brakes. This can improve driver confidence, especially during emergency braking situations.

Given these advantages, it's clear why transitioning from brake drums to rear disc brakes is an appealing project for many vehicle owners.

The Conversion Process

Converting from drum to disc brakes is not an overly complicated process, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and the right tools

. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved
convert brake drums to rear disc

1. Gather the Necessary Components To begin, you will need a rear disc brake conversion kit, which typically includes new calipers, rotors, mounting brackets, and hoses. Ensure that the kit is compatible with your specific vehicle make and model.

2. Prepare the Vehicle Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels, exposing the brake drums.

3. Remove the Old Brake Drums Unscrew the drum from the wheel hub, and then remove the shoes and any associated hardware. Be cautious, as some components may be under tension.

4. Install the New Components Follow the instructions provided with your conversion kit to install the new rotors and calipers. This typically involves mounting brackets, caliper installation, and securing the rotors in place.

5. Replace Brake Lines If necessary, replace the existing drum brake lines with those compatible with the disc brake system. Ensure all connections are secure and free from leaks.

6. Bleed the Brakes After installation, bleed the brake system to remove any air trapped in the lines. This step is crucial for ensuring optimal braking performance.

7. Reinstall Wheels and Test After completing the conversion, reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle. Before taking it on the road, test the brakes at low speeds in a safe area to ensure everything is functioning smoothly.

Conclusion

Converting rear drum brakes to disc brakes can significantly enhance your vehicle's performance and safety. With improved stopping power, heat management, and ease of maintenance, this upgrade is well worth considering. Although it requires some mechanical skills, the benefits far outweigh the effort. Ultimately, this conversion can lead to a more enjoyable and safer driving experience.