Converting Brake Drums to Rear Disc Brakes A Comprehensive Guide

Brake systems are crucial for vehicle safety and performance. While drum brakes have been a traditional choice for rear braking, many car enthusiasts and drivers are turning to rear disc brakes for better performance and reliability. Converting from drum brakes to disc brakes can significantly enhance your vehicle’s braking capabilities and provide a more responsive and consistent stopping power. This article explores the benefits of such a conversion, the procedure, parts needed, and considerations to keep in mind.

Advantages of Disc Brakes Over Drum Brakes

1. Improved Stopping Power Disc brakes generally provide superior stopping power compared to drum brakes. The design allows for better heat dissipation, reducing brake fade during prolonged use, such as in heavy braking situations. This is particularly advantageous when driving in hilly areas or during spirited driving conditions.

2. Better Performance in Wet Conditions Disc brakes are less susceptible to water retention, which can diminish braking efficiency. When it rains, water on the brake surface can cause drum brakes to lag, while disc brakes maintain better contact and efficiency.

3. Maintenance and Inspection Inspecting and maintaining disc brakes is often easier than drum brakes. Disc brakes have fewer parts and are less prone to the internal wear problems associated with drums, making routine maintenance simpler.

4. Weight Distribution and Handling Rear disc brakes provide better weight distribution across the vehicle. This leads to improved handling characteristics, especially important for performance vehicles where cornering agility is a factor.

The Conversion Process

Converting your vehicle from drum to disc brakes requires some technical knowledge and mechanical skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to conduct the conversion

1. Gather Necessary Parts The first step is to acquire the necessary components for the conversion. At a minimum, you will need - Disc rotors - Calipers and brake pads - Mounting brackets for calipers - Brake lines (as the routing may differ) - Master cylinder (in some cases, upgrading the master cylinder may be necessary to accommodate increased fluid capacity).

2. Remove the Old Drum Brakes Begin by lifting the vehicle and removing the rear wheels. Remove the drum assemblies, including the drum, shoes, springs, and backing plate. Ensure you take proper precautions, such as wearing safety goggles and gloves.

3. Prepare the Axles Once the drum brakes are removed, you may need to clean the axle surfaces and possibly install new hub bearings if they are worn. Check the condition of the axle flange as well; it should be clean and in good shape to ensure proper mounting of the new components.

4. Install the New Disc Brake Components Attach the mounting brackets for the calipers, ensuring they are secured correctly. Install the new disc rotors onto the axle hubs, followed by the calipers and brake pads. Make sure everything is torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.

5. Replace Brake Lines If necessary, install new brake lines. Ensure that the lines do not rub against any suspension components or the body of the vehicle.

6. Bleed the Brakes After everything is installed, bleed the brake system to remove any air from the lines. This is critical for ensuring that the brakes operate effectively.

7. Test Drive Once the installation is complete, take the vehicle for a test drive in a safe area. Pay attention to how the brakes feel and check for any noises or irregularities.

Considerations and Conclusion

While the conversion from drum to disc brakes can enhance the safety and performance of your vehicle, there are several factors to consider. Compatibility is crucial; ensure that the disc brake conversion kit is suitable for your specific make and model. Additionally, if you are not confident in performing the conversion yourself, it is advisable to seek professional assistance.

In conclusion, converting your rear drum brakes to disc brakes offers numerous benefits, from improved performance and safety to easier maintenance. If you’re looking to enhance your driving experience, this upgrade could be a worthwhile investment, rewarding you with a more responsive and effective braking system.