How to Convert Brake Drum to Disc Brakes

Converting brake drums to disc brakes is a popular upgrade for many vehicles, particularly older models that initially came equipped with drum brakes. This conversion can enhance your vehicle's braking performance, improve heat dissipation, and offer more consistent stopping power. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process and considerations involved in performing this conversion.

Benefits of Converting to Disc Brakes

Before diving into the conversion process, it’s worth noting the advantages of disc brakes. Disc brakes generally provide better performance in wet conditions as they dissipate heat more effectively, reducing the risk of brake fade. They also tend to require less maintenance and offer better engagement, leading to improved vehicle safety.

Tools and Materials Needed

To convert drum brakes to disc brakes, you will need the following tools and materials

- Disc brake conversion kit (including calipers, rotors, brackets, and necessary hardware) - Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Socket set and torque wrench - Brake fluid - Brake cleaner - Hydraulic press (optional for hub modifications) - Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, pliers, etc.)

Step-by-Step Guide to Conversion

1. Preparation and Safety Begin by ensuring that your vehicle is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks for additional safety. Gather all tools and materials before starting.

2. Remove the Wheels Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts, and then take off the wheels. This will give you access to the brake assembly.

3. Remove the Drum Brakes Unbolt the drum brake assembly from the axle. This typically involves removing the drum itself along with associated hardware, such as the shoes and springs. Be sure to keep track of all components, as you may need some for the conversion process.

4. Inspect the Backing Plate Once the drum assembly is removed, inspect the backing plate. In some cases, you may need to modify or replace it to accommodate the new disc brake setup.

5. Install the Disc Brake Bracket Follow the instructions provided with your conversion kit to install the bracket that will hold the disc brake caliper. This step is crucial, as the alignment must be precise to ensure optimal braking performance.

6. Attach the Brake Rotor Slide the disc brake rotor onto the hub. If necessary, you may need to use a hydraulic press to modify the hub for proper fitment. Ensure the rotor is securely attached and free from any debris that might affect its performance.

7. Install the Caliper Mount the brake caliper onto the bracket, ensuring that it aligns correctly with the rotor. Use the bolts provided in your conversion kit and tighten them to the specified torque.

8. Connect Brake Lines Following the instructions, connect the brake lines to the calipers. Be cautious to avoid kinks or sharp bends that could impede brake fluid flow.

9. Bleed the Brakes After all components are installed, it’s critical to bleed the brake system to remove any air that could compromise braking performance. Start at the caliper farthest from the master cylinder and work your way closer.

10. Reinstall Wheels and Lower the Vehicle Once everything is securely in place and the brake system is bled, reinstall the wheels, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

11. Test the Brakes Before taking the vehicle on the road, pump the brake pedal to ensure proper engagement and check for any leaks around the brake lines and connections. Conduct a test drive at low speeds to ensure that everything functions as intended.

Conclusion

Converting from drum brakes to disc brakes can significantly enhance your vehicle's braking capabilities. While the process requires some mechanical skill and attention to detail, it is a rewarding DIY project that results in improved performance and safety. If you’re unsure about any step, consider consulting a professional mechanic or a knowledgeable friend to ensure the conversion is executed properly. Proper maintenance and regular checks after the conversion are essential to ensure long-lasting performance and reliability.