how to do a drum to disc brake conversion

How to Do a Drum to Disc Brake Conversion

Converting from drum brakes to disc brakes is a popular modification among car enthusiasts looking to improve the braking performance of their vehicle. Drum brakes are effective but often lack the responsiveness and cooling characteristics of disc brakes. This article aims to guide you through the essential steps and considerations involved in making this upgrade to your vehicle.

Understanding the Benefits

Before diving into the conversion process, it is crucial to understand why you would want to make this change. Disc brakes typically offer better heat dissipation, more consistent braking performance, and an overall more responsive feel. They are less prone to brake fade under heavy usage, making them an ideal choice for performance vehicles and those that may encounter challenging driving conditions.

Preparation

1. Research First and foremost, conduct thorough research on your specific vehicle's compatibility with disc brake conversions. Some vehicles may have readily available kits or parts that make the process easier, while others may require more custom work.

2. Gather Tools and Parts Depending on the complexity of your vehicle’s braking system, you may need various tools such as wrenches, a jack, jack stands, and possibly a torque wrench. In terms of parts, you’ll need a disc brake conversion kit, which typically includes - Disc brake rotors - Calipers - Brake pads - Necessary mounting brackets - Hoses and lines - Master cylinder (if required)

3. Safety Gear Ensure you have safety goggles and gloves on hand. Safety should always be your priority.

The Conversion Process

1. Lift the Vehicle Start by lifting your vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. This provides you ample room to work on the brakes safely.

2. Remove Old Drum Brakes Begin by removing the wheels and then proceed to disassemble the drum brakes. This involves removing the drums themselves, brake shoes, and any associated hardware. It’s helpful to take pictures as you go along to ensure you remember how to reassemble everything.

3. Install New Brake Components - Mounting Brackets Follow the instructions provided with your conversion kit to install any new brackets that will hold the disc brakes. - Rotors Install the disc brake rotors onto the wheel hub. Make sure they are seated correctly and securely. - Calipers Attach the new brake calipers to the mounting brackets, ensuring they are oriented correctly to accommodate the brake pads.

4. Brake Lines If your conversion kit includes new brake lines, replace the old drum brake lines with the new ones. Be careful to secure them properly to avoid any rubbing or interference with suspension components.

5. Master Cylinder Depending on your vehicle, you might need to upgrade the master cylinder to accommodate the new braking system. If your vehicle uses a single circuit master cylinder, consider upgrading to a dual circuit for added safety.

6. Bleed the Brakes Once everything is installed, it’s crucial to bleed the braking system to remove any air pockets. This step is essential for ensuring your brakes function efficiently. Follow the proper bleeding procedure for your vehicle.

Final Steps

1. Check All Connections Double-check that all components are secure and that brake lines are free of leaks. 2. Test Drive Before taking your vehicle out on the road, perform several slow-speed tests to ensure everything is working correctly. Listen for unusual noises, and make sure the brakes engage smoothly and effectively.

3. Regular Maintenance Finally, maintain your new brake system regularly by checking pads, fluid levels, and ensuring the rotors are in good condition.

Conclusion

Performing a drum to disc brake conversion requires a systematic approach and adherence to safety practices. While the process can be labor-intensive, the improvement in braking performance is often well worth the effort. With proper research and preparation, along with attention to detail during the installation, drivers can enjoy a vastly improved driving experience. Always remember that if you're uncertain about any step in the process, it’s wise to consult with a professional mechanic to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.