Upgrading Rear Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes for Improved Performance and Safety

How to Change Rear Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes

Upgrading from rear drum brakes to disc brakes on your vehicle can significantly enhance braking performance, improve safety, and provide better heat dissipation. While the process can seem daunting, with the right tools and guidance, you can accomplish this transformation in your vehicle. Below is a detailed guide on how to change rear drum brakes to disc brakes.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you will need

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - Socket set and wrenches - Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips) - Hammer - Brake pads - Rotors - Calipers (and their mounting brackets) - Brake lines (if necessary) - Bolts and hardware (if required) - Torque wrench - Anti-seize lubricant

Step 1 Preparation

1. Safety First Make sure to park the vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake. If you’re working on the rear wheels, it’s advisable to work on one side at a time to maintain balance and safety. 2. Loosen Lug Nuts Before lifting your vehicle, use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on both rear wheels. Do not remove them completely yet.

Step 2 Lifting the Vehicle

1. Raise the Vehicle Use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle. Once elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle to ensure it remains stable while you work. 2. Remove the Wheels Now that the vehicle is secured on jack stands, remove the loosened lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

Step 3 Remove Drum Brakes

1. Access the Drum Brakes Carefully remove the brake drum by pulling it away from the wheel hub. If it’s stuck, gently tap it with a hammer to free it.

2. Take Out the Components Once the drum is off, take note of how the springs and shoes are arranged. Remove the brake shoes, springs, and any other components. It might be helpful to take photos for reference when installing the new disc brakes.

Step 4 Install Disc Brake Components

1. Install Caliper Bracket Depending on your disc brake conversion kit, you may need to install an adapter bracket to mount the caliper. Secure the bracket to the wheel hub using the bolts provided in your kit.

2. Mount the Rotors Slide the rotor onto the wheel hub, ensuring it sits flat against the mounting surface.

3. Attach Calipers Position the caliper over the rotor and secure it to the caliper bracket. Ensure that the caliper is oriented correctly and lines up properly with the rotor. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

Step 5 Connect Brake Lines

1. Install Brake Lines If your conversion kit includes new brake lines, replace the original drum brake lines with the new ones. Ensure that all connections are secure and free from leaks.

2. Bleed the Brakes After connecting the brake lines, you'll need to bleed the brake system to remove any air that may have entered. Use a brake bleeder kit to ensure the lines are free of air bubbles, which can lead to a spongy brake pedal.

Step 6 Reassemble and Test

1. Reinstall Wheels Place the wheels back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts initially.

2. Lower the Vehicle Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground. Finish tightening the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even seating.

3. Test Brakes Before taking the vehicle on the road, gently press the brake pedal several times to seat the brake pads against the rotors. Check for leaks around the brake lines and ensure everything feels secure.

4. Road Test After verifying that everything is in order, take the vehicle for a short drive. Test the brakes at low speeds to ensure they are functioning correctly. Listen for any unusual noises and feel for any irregularities.

Conclusion

Changing from rear drum brakes to disc brakes is a rewarding project that can greatly enhance your vehicle's braking performance. With careful preparation, the right tools, and a little patience, you can successfully complete this upgrade. Always consult your vehicle’s specific service manual for any model-specific instructions or warnings. Enjoy your improved stopping power and safer driving experience!