replace rear drum brakes with disc brakes

Upgrading Your Vehicle Replacing Rear Drum Brakes with Disc Brakes

When it comes to enhancing your vehicle's braking performance, one of the most effective modifications you can make is replacing rear drum brakes with disc brakes. This upgrade not only improves stopping power but also enhances safety and maintenance efficiency. In this article, we’ll delve into the benefits of this conversion, the components involved, and the process of installation.

Understanding Braking Systems

Braking systems can be generally categorized into two types drum brakes and disc brakes. Drum brakes have been a traditional choice in many vehicles, especially older models. They operate by using friction to slow down the vehicle; the brake shoes push against the inside of a rotating drum. While effective, drum brakes can be prone to fade under heavy use and are often less responsive than their disc counterparts.

Disc brakes, on the other hand, feature a rotor that spins along with the wheel. When the brake pedal is pressed, calipers clamp down on the rotor, creating friction that slows the vehicle. This design allows for better heat dissipation, which means disc brakes can maintain their performance under demanding conditions, making them an ideal choice for both everyday driving and high-performance applications.

Benefits of Upgrading to Disc Brakes

1. Improved Stopping Power Disc brakes provide superior stopping power, especially under heavy braking. This is crucial for safety, as it reduces the distance required to come to a complete stop, potentially avoiding accidents.

2. Enhanced Heat Dissipation The open design of disc brakes allows for better airflow, preventing overheating. This is particularly advantageous in situations like mountainous driving or during frequent stops, where heat build-up can lead to brake fade.

3. Reduced Maintenance Disc brakes require less maintenance compared to drum brakes. They are less prone to mud and water build-up, which can affect braking performance. Additionally, replacing worn-out disk pads is typically easier than replacing drum brake shoes.

4. Better Performance in Wet Conditions The design of disc brakes prevents water from being trapped during wet conditions, resulting in more reliable performance and shorter stopping distances when the roads are slick.

5. Aesthetics and Modernization For those who appreciate the aesthetics of their vehicle, installing disc brakes often lends a more modern, high-performance look to the car.

Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to understand what components you'll need for the conversion. Generally, you will need the following

- Disc Brake Rotors These will replace your existing drum brake drums. - Brake Calipers These are used to clamp the brake pads onto the rotor. - Brake Pads High-quality pads that will work with your new calipers. - Brake Lines You may need to upgrade to more resilient lines to withstand increased pressures. - Mounting Brackets and Hardware To properly secure the new components in place. - Performance Brake Fluid Ensure your brake fluid is rated for the performance you expect from your new system.

The Installation Process

1. Preparation Start by safely lifting the vehicle and removing the rear wheels. Ensure that you have all the necessary tools handy.

2. Remove Drum Brakes Disconnect the drum brake components, including the drum, brake shoes, and associated hardware. This may require some mechanical expertise, as various springs and clips secure the system in place.

3. Install Caliper Brackets Once the drum brakes are removed, you'll need to install the caliper brackets. These will provide the necessary support for the new disc brake system.

4. Mount the Rotors and Calipers Next, install the rotors on the wheel hub. Follow this by attaching the calipers over the rotors, ensuring they are secure and properly aligned.

5. Connect Brake Lines Upgrade or connect your brake lines to the new calipers, ensuring there are no leaks.

6. Finish Up Replace your wheels and lower the vehicle. Before you drive, it’s essential to pump the brake pedal several times to seat the pads before road testing the new braking system.

Conclusion

Replacing rear drum brakes with disc brakes is a worthwhile investment that significantly enhances your vehicle's performance and safety. With improved stopping power, better heat dissipation, and lower maintenance requirements, the upgrade offers numerous advantages that both experienced mechanics and casual drivers can appreciate. Whether you plan to execute the installation yourself or seek professional help, this conversion is a step towards a more responsive and enjoyable driving experience.