Steps to Convert Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes for Enhanced Performance and Safety

Upgrading Drum Brakes to Disc Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Upgrading from drum brakes to disc brakes is a popular modification among automotive enthusiasts and those seeking improved vehicle performance. While drum brakes can suffice for basic driving needs, disc brakes offer superior stopping power, heat dissipation, and reduced brake fade. If you're considering making this change, here's a detailed guide on how to upgrade your drum brakes to disc brakes.

Why Upgrade?

Before delving into the process, it's essential to understand the advantages of switching to disc brakes. Disc brakes generally provide

1. Improved Stopping Power Disc brakes have a larger surface area and are typically ventilated, enabling them to dissipate heat more effectively. 2. Enhanced Resistance to Brake Fade Under heavy use, drum brakes can overheat and produce fade, while disc brakes maintain performance even in extreme conditions. 3. Easier Maintenance Disc brakes are easier to service since the brake components are more accessible.

Tools and Materials Needed

Tools - Socket set and wrenches - Brake line tools - Jack and jack stands - C-clamp or brake caliper tool - Torque wrench

Materials - Disc brake conversion kit (includes rotors, calipers, brackets, and mounting hardware) - New brake pads - Brake fluid - Brake lines (if necessary) - Anti-seize lubricant

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation Begin by ensuring the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels but do not remove them. Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.

2. Remove the Wheels Once the vehicle is elevated, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheels to expose the drum brakes.

3. Disconnect the Drum Brakes Start by removing the brake drum. This may require loosening the adjustment screw on the brake shoes. Disconnect all brake lines and the parking brake linkage connected to the drum assemblies.

4. Install the Disc Brake Kit Most disc brake conversion kits come with detailed instructions. Generally, you'll start by installing the caliper brackets onto the rear axle housing using the provided hardware. Then, mount the disc rotors onto the hub, securing them firmly.

5. Install Calipers Attach the brake calipers to the brackets. Ensure they are positioned correctly, as this is crucial for proper brake operation. Install new brake pads into the calipers before securing them in place.

6. Connect Brake Lines If the kit requires new brake lines, now is the time to install them. Ensure all connections are tight to prevent leaks. Follow up by bleeding the brake system to eliminate any air, which can impair braking performance.

7. Reinstall Wheels and Lower Vehicle After completing the installation, put the wheels back on, tightening the lug nuts securely. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.

8. Final Checks Before taking your vehicle for a spin, double-check all connections and ensure everything is secured properly. It’s also advisable to pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the calipers are positioned correctly and the brake fluid fills the newly installed system.

Conclusion

Converting from drum brakes to disc brakes is an effective way to enhance your vehicle's braking performance and safety. While this upgrade may require some mechanical skill and the right tools, the improved braking capability and reliability are well worth the effort. Always remember to consult the specific instructions provided in your conversion kit and consider seeking professional assistance if you feel unsure at any stage of the process. Happy driving!