how to change brake drums to rotors

Dec . 29, 2024 04:31 Back to list

how to change brake drums to rotors

How to Change Brake Drums to Rotors

Changing your vehicle's brake system from drums to rotors can significantly enhance your car's braking performance. Disc brakes generally provide better heat dissipation, improved stopping power, and reduced maintenance over time compared to drum brakes. If you’re considering this upgrade, here's a detailed guide on how to effectively make this transition.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand the components involved in both drum and rotor brake systems. Drum brakes consist of a curved drum that houses brake shoes. When you apply the brakes, the shoes expand against the drum, creating friction to slow down the vehicle. In contrast, disc brakes utilize a rotor (a flat metal disc) and calipers that hold brake pads. When you brake, the calipers compress the pads against the rotor, hence stopping the wheels from turning.

Tools and Materials Needed

To begin, gather the required tools and parts - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Brake cleaner - New brake rotors and pads - Calipers (if not reusing old ones) - Brake fluid - Wrenches and sockets - Torque wrench - Safety goggles and gloves

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation Ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and wear safety goggles and gloves. Gather all your tools and required parts.

2. Lift the Vehicle Using a jack, lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheels using the lug wrench.

3. Remove Old Drum Brakes Locate the drum brakes on the back side of the wheel hub. If there are retaining screws, remove them. Gently pull the drum off, tapping it with a rubber mallet if it’s stuck.

how to change brake drums to rotors

4. Inspect Components Examine the brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and other components for wear and damage. Replace any parts that look worn out.

5. Install New Brake Rotors Fit the new rotors onto the hub, ensuring they sit flush. If you're using a new caliper, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fit it onto the new rotor.

6. Attach Brake Pads Install the new brake pads into the caliper. Ensure they are correctly positioned against the rotor. If you’re reusing old calipers, ensure they are cleaned properly before reinstalling.

7. Reassemble Reattach the caliper over the brake pads. Secure the caliper with its bolts. Ensure all fittings are tight but be careful not to over-torque them.

8. Repeat for All Wheels Follow the same process for each wheel where you are changing from drums to rotors.

9. Brake Fluid Check Once all rotors and pads are installed, check the brake fluid reservoir. Top it off if necessary, as some fluid will have displaced during the process.

10. Test the System Lower your vehicle back to the ground. Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads seat properly against the rotors. This step is crucial as it helps build brake pressure.

11. Final Inspection Ensure all tools are removed from the vicinity of the vehicle, and double-check for any loose bolts or components.

Conclusion

Upgrading from drum brakes to rotors is a rewarding DIY project that can improve your vehicle's performance and safety. However, if you feel uncomfortable at any stage of this process, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional mechanic. Remember, proper installation and maintenance of your brake system are essential for safe driving. Enjoy the improved braking efficiency that your new rotors will provide!