drum brakes to disc brakes conversion kit

Converting Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Upgrading your vehicle’s braking system from drum brakes to disc brakes can significantly enhance its performance, safety, and reliability. This conversion is not only a common practice among automotive enthusiasts but also a practical improvement that many drivers pursue to ensure better braking efficiency, especially in high-performance or modified vehicles. In this article, we will explore the benefits of converting drum brakes to disc brakes, the components involved, and a general overview of the conversion process.

Understanding Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes

Before diving into the conversion process, it is essential to understand the fundamental differences between drum brakes and disc brakes. Drum brakes consist of a cylindrical drum that rotates with the wheel. Inside this drum are brake shoes that press against the drum's inner surface to create friction and slow down the vehicle. While effective, drum brakes typically generate more heat, which can lead to brake fade under intense conditions.

Conversely, disc brakes employ a rotating disc (or rotor) and a caliper that houses brake pads. When the brake pedal is pressed, the caliper squeezes the pads against the rotor, creating friction and effectively slowing the vehicle. Disc brakes are generally more efficient, dissipate heat better, and provide improved stopping power, especially under heavy loads or during rapid deceleration.

Benefits of Converting to Disc Brakes

1. Improved Stopping Power Disc brakes provide superior stopping power compared to drum brakes, especially in high-performance applications where rapid and repeated braking is required.

2. Better Heat Dissipation The open design of disc brakes allows for better air circulation, which helps to dissipate heat more effectively. This reduces the risk of brake fade during prolonged use.

3. Enhanced Safety Improved braking performance contributes to better vehicle control, especially in emergency situations. Disc brakes offer more reliable performance in wet conditions due to their quicker drying capabilities.

4. Reduced Maintenance While both systems require maintenance, disc brakes typically need less frequent servicing than drum brakes, leading to reduced long-term costs.

5. Aesthetic Appeal For enthusiasts, disc brakes can enhance the visual appeal of a vehicle’s wheel assembly, showcasing high-performance components that match the overall look of a modified car.

The Conversion Process

Converting from drum brakes to disc brakes can be a straightforward process for those with mechanical skills, but it is crucial to follow each step carefully. The process generally involves the following key steps

1. Gather Necessary Parts A complete disc brake conversion kit typically includes rotors, calipers, brake pads, wheel bearings, and all mounting hardware. It is essential to choose a kit that fits your specific make and model for compatibility.

2. Removing Drum Brakes Begin by lifting the vehicle and securely supporting it with jack stands. Remove the wheels and brake drums, then disconnect the brake lines and any other components connected to the drum brake system.

3. Installing the New Components Follow the instructions provided with your conversion kit to install the new disc brake components. This usually involves mounting the new calipers on the spindle, installing the rotors, and attaching the new brake lines. Ensure that everything is properly torqued to manufacturer specifications.

4. Bleeding the Brake System After installing the new disc brakes, it’s crucial to bleed the brake system to remove any air from the lines. Use a brake bleeder kit or have a helper pump the brake pedal as you release the bleeder valve until a steady stream of fluid is present.

5. Testing Once everything is installed and the system is bled, reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle. Before hitting the road, conduct a thorough test of the brakes at low speeds to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Switching from drum brakes to disc brakes is a valuable upgrade that can enhance your vehicle's safety, performance, and overall driving experience. While the process may require some mechanical knowledge, the improvements in braking efficiency are well worth the effort. As always, ensure that any modifications comply with local regulations and are performed safely for the best results. With the right tools and components, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of a disc brake system.