Drum to Disc Conversion?

Ok guys so i was thinkin about somethin the other day and i want you guys to let me know if its just stupid and a waste of time and money. So i was thinking about converting my rear drum brakes to disc brakes along with the axle for a different gear ratio. so let me know what you guys think thanks!

 

a search of the forum would provide ample threads on this subject.

 

Folks have tried the rear brake conversion and been disappointed by a decrease in braking effectiveness. It's not just a simple swap drums for calipers and call it done..and as mushy as the brakes might feel....the truck was built this way for a reason.

A rear end re-gearing- What are you trying to gain??? You can just swap gears without swapping the whole axle....but there are tradeoffs to be had if you do.

 

Well i found some other threads and i realized that its not the best idea and i know i can regear with out replacing the axle. so its just what i thought a stupid idea haha. but thanks guys

 

best bet is to get some nice slotted rotors and a good set of brake pads, search around, Tacomaman06 was mentioning some good brakes recently I believe?

 

I don't think they feel mushy at all...and I've lit up a few panic stops in this truck- No issues. ABS makes a LOT of noise...but I didn't roll over anyone/thing so I'm ok with that.

Stainless lines go on mine in the next week or so.....and I HIGHLY recommend them!!

 

well i dont see why the brakes you be mushy seems a little weird that they would be. I would think and from what i have read that they stiffin up a little and the ss lines are a good idea. But rab89 what would be the advantage of using the slotted rotors of disc?

 

i would just buy a ford 9" rear end and u will have disk,abs, and u pretty much could never blow it up.

 

The main change will be in wet conditions, the slots allow the water to escape and will greatly improve stopping in the rain.
Also when driving off road or on dirt roads, we often get rocks in our brakes, the slotted or drilled rotors help get the rocks out right away. Brake dust can also build up on your brakes, with slotted or drilled rotors it gives the dust a place to move as to not get stuck on the brake.

Most people think they are to keep heat down, which they do, but that is not their main focus, you will notice though that they won't get mushy as fast...

Just make sure you run a good set of brake pads.

 

A lot of guys are using HAWK brake pads, you can find them at a good price at raceshopper.com

 

well thats true i never thought of that, but i think ill look in to the hawk pads and some rotors. do you have any suggestions on some rotors that are of good quality and will fit nicely?

 

Agreed. You can find these rear-ends out of explorers very easily, Im probably going to do the swap.

 

http://www.4wheeloffroad.com/techarticles/drivetrain/131_0708_4x4_disc_brakes/index.html

 

Drilled/slotted rotors allow gasses to escape during braking.
I put drilled/slotted rotors and ceramic pads on my last Vibe.
Huge change in feel and 'bite'. An awesome change in braking capability.

Also had a vette I was selling and needed to change the pads. I put the cheapest pads on. Brakes felt ineffective. You really get what you pay for.

Seriously considering swapping the pads and rotors on the Taco.
If results equaled what I had on the Vibe, it'd be a welcome upgrade.
Brakes work well enough, but with any load I find I am pressing harder on the pedal than I anticipate I should.