how to convert drum brakes to disk brakes

How to Convert Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes

Converting your vehicle's drum brakes to disc brakes can significantly enhance its braking performance, reliability, and overall driving experience. While drum brakes serve their purpose, disc brakes offer better heat dissipation, improved stopping power, and faster response times. If you're considering this upgrade, here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Why Convert to Disc Brakes?

Before diving into the conversion process, let’s explore the benefits of disc brakes. Drum brakes tend to fade when overheated due to the heat generated during braking, whereas disc brakes cool off more quickly. This feature makes them more effective for high-performance driving and frequent stopping, such as in city traffic. Additionally, disc brakes require less maintenance and provide a more consistent and responsive feel.

Tools and Parts You Will Need

1. Tools - Wrench set - Socket set - Screwdrivers - Brake line tool - Brake bleeder - Jack and jack stands - Safety goggles and gloves

2. Parts - Disc brake conversion kit (specific to your vehicle model) - New rotors - Calipers - Brake pads - Brake lines - Brake fluid

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

1. Research and Acquisition Begin by researching a conversion kit compatible with your specific vehicle model. Many manufacturers provide kits designed to replace drum brakes with disc brakes, often including all necessary components. Purchase your kit and ensure that it meets your vehicle's specifications.

2. Prepare Your Workspace Choose a well-lit and flat area to work. Gather all tools and parts and ensure you have sufficient space to move around confidently. Make sure the vehicle is turned off and parked on a level surface.

3. Raise the Vehicle Using a jack, raise the vehicle from its frame and secure it with jack stands. This will give you access to the wheel wells to remove the drum brakes. Always prioritize safety when working under a vehicle.

4. Remove the Old Drum Brakes Start by removing the wheels. Once the wheels are off, take out the drums by unscrewing them from the hub. Detach the brake shoes, springs, and other components carefully, as some parts may be under tension.

5. Install the New Disc Brake Components Following the instructions provided with your conversion kit, begin the installation of the new disc brake components. First, install the new rotor onto the hub. Then, mount the caliper bracket and attach the new calipers to the bracket. Make sure to securely fasten all components.

6. Install New Brake Lines Replace the old brake lines with new ones that come with the disc brake conversion kit. Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks. While working, use brake line tools to ensure there are no kinks or twists in the lines.

7. Install Brake Pads Insert the brake pads into the calipers, ensuring they are positioned correctly. If your kit includes shims or spacers, use them as outlined in the instructions. Ensure everything is lined up neatly.

8. Bleed the Brakes With all components in place, it is crucial to bleed the brakes to remove any air from the brake lines. Using a brake bleeder or employing the help of a friend to pump the brakes, follow the bleeding procedure until no air bubbles appear in the fluid.

9. Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Vehicle Once you are satisfied with the brake installation and have completed bleeding, reinstall the wheels. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and ensure everything is secure.

10. Test the New Brake System Before heading out onto the road, conduct a thorough inspection of your new brake system. Press the brake pedal a few times to check the responsiveness. Finally, take a short and cautious test drive in a safe area to ensure everything operates smoothly.

Conclusion

Converting drum brakes to disc brakes can greatly improve your vehicle’s performance and safety. While the process may seem daunting, taking it step by step with the right tools and parts makes it manageable. Always consult your vehicle's manual and consider seeking professional assistance if needed. Enjoy the enhanced braking capabilities that disc brakes provide!