how to convert brake drum to disc brakes

How to Convert Brake Drum to Disc Brakes

Converting your vehicle from drum brakes to disc brakes can significantly enhance performance, safety, and maintenance. Disc brakes offer improved stopping power, reduced brake fade, and generally require less frequent maintenance compared to drum brakes. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps and considerations necessary for converting your brake drums to disc brakes.

Step 1 Assess Compatibility

Before starting the conversion, it’s crucial to assess if your vehicle’s existing components can support a disc brake system. Most modern vehicles come with drum brakes at the rear and either drums or discs at the front. Research your vehicle’s specifications, including the size of the wheels, axle compatibility, and the existing brake system. It’s also essential to consider whether your vehicle’s frame can accommodate the new components.

Step 2 Gather Necessary Parts

Once you confirm compatibility, you’ll need to gather the necessary parts for the conversion. The basic components required for a drum-to-disc conversion include

- Disc Rotors Choose rotors that fit your wheel size and are compatible with your calipers. - Brake Calipers These hold the brake pads and are essential for clamping the rotor. - Brake Pads Ensure they are designed to work with your calipers. - Mounting Brackets If your vehicle didn’t come with disc brakes, you’ll need brackets to mount the calipers to the steering knuckles or axle. - Brake Lines New lines may be necessary to accommodate the hydraulic requirements of the disc brakes. - Master Cylinder Depending on the system used, you may need a larger master cylinder to support the increased fluid flow.

Step 3 Remove Existing Drum Brakes

Start the conversion by safely lifting your vehicle and removing the wheels. Next, take off the hub and remove the drum brakes, which will typically involve detaching the backing plate and removing the brake shoes and hardware. Make sure to keep track of all the components for reference later.

Step 4 Install New Components

With the drum brake assembly removed, you can now install the new disc brake components. Follow these steps

1. Mount the Rotors First, you’ll need to install the disc rotors onto the wheel hubs. 2. Install the Calipers Attach the calipers using the mounting brackets. Ensure they are securely fitted and align perfectly with the rotors. 3. Connect Brake Lines Run the new brake lines from the master cylinder to the calipers, ensuring there are no sharp bends or kinks that could restrict fluid flow. 4. Attach the Brake Pads Insert the brake pads into the calipers, making sure they fit snugly against the rotors.

Step 5 Adjust the Master Cylinder

If necessary, replace or adjust the master cylinder. A larger master cylinder may be needed to accommodate the greater hydraulic force required by the disc brake system. Make sure to bleed the brake system to eliminate any air bubbles, which could compromise braking performance.

Step 6 Test the System

After ensuring all components are correctly installed and secure, it’s time to test your new brake system. Before hitting the road, perform several checks

- Check Fluid Levels Ensure the brake fluid reservoir is filled to the appropriate level. - Test the Brakes Before taking a full drive, test the brake pedal by pressing it gently while stationary to ensure it feels firm. Follow this with a low-speed test to evaluate the braking responsiveness. Step 7 Final Adjustments

After the initial test, make any necessary adjustments to the caliper alignment or brake fluid levels. Regularly inspect your brakes after the conversion to ensure everything remains in good condition.

Conclusion

Converting from drum to disc brakes can greatly improve your vehicle's braking performance and reliability. While the process may seem daunting, with the right tools, preparation, and a clear understanding of the procedure, you can achieve a successful conversion. Always consult your vehicle’s manual and consider reaching out to a professional mechanic if you're unsure about any steps. Upgrading your brakes not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also contributes to your overall safety on the road.