replace rear drum brakes with disc brakes

Upgrading Your Vehicle Replacing Rear Drum Brakes with Disc Brakes

Upgrading your vehicle’s braking system is one of the most noteworthy improvements you can implement for enhanced safety and performance. One prominent upgrade that car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike consider is replacing rear drum brakes with disc brakes. This transition can significantly impact your vehicle's stopping power, reliability, and overall driving experience. In this article, we will delve into the benefits of this upgrade, the installation process, and what you need to consider before making the change.

Understanding the Differences

To appreciate the advantages of switching from drum to disc brakes, it's crucial to understand the fundamental differences between these two systems. Drum brakes consist of a hollow drum that spins with the wheel; brake shoes push against the inside surface of the drum to create friction and slow the vehicle down. Conversely, disc brakes employ a disc (or rotor) that spins with the wheel and provides braking through calipers that squeeze brake pads against the rotor.

This fundamental design difference offers several benefits. Disc brakes inherently dissipate heat more effectively than drum brakes, reducing the risk of brake fade, which can occur during prolonged braking or high-performance situations. Disc brakes also provide more consistent stopping power, particularly in wet conditions, as water runs off the disc surface rather than getting trapped, as it can in drum brakes.

Advantages of Upgrading to Disc Brakes

1. Improved Stopping Power With better heat dissipation and more effective friction generation, disc brakes deliver superior stopping power. This increased efficiency is particularly valuable for larger vehicles or those used for towing.

2. Enhanced Performance In addition to better stopping power, disc brakes tend to offer more responsive braking feel. As the calipers are situated closer to the wheel, the stopping response is more immediate compared to the slower engagement of drum brakes.

3. Reduced Maintenance While drum brakes can require more maintenance and adjustment over time, disc brakes are generally easier to maintain. Their design allows for quicker inspections and replacements of components, such as brake pads, without needing to remove the entire assembly.

4. Aesthetic Appeal and Customization For many car enthusiasts, the visual appeal of a disc brake system with metallic or colored calipers can enhance the vehicle’s overall look. Plus, aftermarket options for performance disc brake kits are abundant, allowing for customized upgrades.

Installation Process

Upgrading to disc brakes is not a straightforward task but can be done with the right tools and know-how. Here’s a general outline of the installation process

1. Shopping for a Conversion Kit Many manufacturers offer disc brake conversion kits tailored to specific vehicles. These kits typically include rotors, calipers, brackets, and necessary hardware.

2. Gathering Tools and Equipment You'll need standard automotive tools such as wrenches, sockets, and possibly specialized tools for removing and installing brake components.

3. Removing the Old Drum Brakes Start by safely lifting the vehicle and removing the wheels. Next, detach the drum brake assembly, which may require removing brake lines, backing plates, and the drum itself.

4. Installing the New Disc Brakes Follow the instructions provided with your conversion kit. Generally, you'll install the new brackets, then mount the rotors and calipers. Ensure that you connect the brake lines and bleed the braking system to remove any air.

5. Final Inspection and Testing After installation, double-check all connections and components. Test the brakes at low speeds in a safe area to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Considerations Before Upgrading

Before embarking on this upgrade, it’s essential to consider a few factors

- Cost Upgrading to disc brakes can be cost-prohibitive depending on the vehicle and the quality of parts chosen. Budget accordingly and include potential labor costs if you plan on having a mechanic perform the work.

- Vehicle Use Consider how you use your vehicle. If you mostly drive in urban settings with frequent stops, the performance benefits of disc brakes can be significant.

- Legal and Insurance Implications Make sure to check your local laws regarding brake modifications, and inform your insurance provider to update your coverage accordingly.

Conclusion

Replacing rear drum brakes with disc brakes can transform your vehicle’s driving dynamics, providing enhanced safety, reliability, and performance. While the installation process requires careful planning and execution, the long-term benefits often justify the investment. Whether you are a car enthusiast looking for a performance edge or a regular driver wanting to improve safety, this upgrade is a worthwhile consideration. Always consult with a professional if you are uncertain about any part of the process, and enjoy the improved driving experience that comes with modern braking technology.