how to change from drum to disc brakes

How to Change from Drum to Disc Brakes

Upgrading your vehicle's braking system from drum to disc brakes can significantly improve its stopping power, performance, and safety. While drum brakes have been standard in many vehicles for decades, disc brakes are now preferred for their efficiency and reliability. If you're considering making this upgrade, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to change from drum to disc brakes.

Step 1 Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you start the conversion process, it's crucial to gather all the necessary tools and components. You'll need a socket set, a jack and jack stands, screwdrivers, a brake tool kit, and possibly a torque wrench. In terms of materials, you'll require disc brake rotors, calipers, pads, brake lines, and any required mounting hardware. Make sure to also have brake fluid and an appropriate adapter, as the existing drum brake components may not be compatible with disc brakes.

Step 2 Prepare Your Vehicle

Begin by ensuring your vehicle is on a flat surface. Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands. Remove the rear wheels to access the drum brake assembly. If you are changing from drum brakes on the rear axle, the process may be simpler; however, changing the front brakes may require additional steps due to the intricacies of the suspension and steering components.

Once the wheels are off, take off the drum brake assembly. This involves removing the brake drum, which may require some gentle prying if it's stuck due to rust or debris. After removing the drum, detach the brake shoes and any retaining springs or clips. Ensure that you take note of how the components are arranged, as you will need this information for the installation of the new system.

Step 4 Install the Disc Brake Setup

Next, install the new disc brake components. Start by attaching the new mounting brackets for the calipers. Follow this by positioning the brake rotors onto the hub. Once the rotors are secure, mount the calipers and then insert the brake pads into the calipers. Make sure everything is tightened according to the manufacturer's specifications, usually available in the installation manual.

Step 5 Connect Brake Lines

Now, you’ll need to connect the new brake lines to the calipers. This often involves removing and capping or redirecting the existing drum brake lines. Ensure there are no leaks after connecting everything, as a proper sealing is crucial for effective braking.

Step 6 Bleed the Brakes

After everything is installed, you’ll need to bleed the brake lines to remove any air trapped in the system. This process involves pumping the brake pedal while the bleeder valves on the calipers are opened and closed at intervals to allow fluid to flow through without air.

Step 7 Test and Adjust

Finally, once the installation is complete and the brakes bled, it’s essential to test the system. Ensure that the brakes engage smoothly and effectively. Test drive your vehicle in a safe area to ensure everything is functioning correctly before hitting the road.

In conclusion, converting from drum to disc brakes can enhance your vehicle's braking efficiency and overall safety. While it’s a more involved process than simply changing brake pads, the improved performance makes it a worthwhile investment for many drivers. Always refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed instructions and consider consulting a professional mechanic if you're unsure at any stage of the process.