How Do I Upgrade From Drum to Disc Brakes on a Classic BMW?


To upgrade from drum to disc brakes on a classic BMW, identify your car's specifications to ensure compatibility with disc brake kits, and verify potential issues with wheel size or suspension. Gather essential tools such as a metric socket set, torque wrench, and brake bleeder kit. Choose a model-specific disc brake kit, evaluating options like carbon composite materials and slotted rotors for heat management. Carefully dismantle the drum system, then install the disc components, ensuring secure attachment and no leaks. Adjust and bleed the brakes for optimum performance. Initial testing in a controlled environment will confirm the upgrade's success, offering deeper insights upon further exploration.

Assess Your BMW Model

Before you upgrade the brakes on your classic BMW, take a good look at your specific model. Knowing the details of your car helps make sure the brakes work well and keep you safe. Different BMW models from different years might have different brake setups, which can affect how you upgrade.

First, find out the make, model, and year of your BMW. This info will tell you about the brake system it has and if it can handle upgrades like disc brakes. Older cars might have drum brakes that fit the time they were made, but they might not work as well as modern disc brakes.

Check if your model has any specific issues, like wheel size or suspension, that could limit your choices.

Look at factory manuals and visit forums where BMW fans talk about their cars. You might find tips from others who have upgraded their brakes. They can share problems they faced and suggest good brake conversion kits.

Gather Necessary Tools

To upgrade the brakes on your classic BMW, you need the right tools to make the switch from drum to disc brakes easy and effective.

Proper tools help avoid any damage and make the job simpler.

Here's what you'll need:

  1. Socket Set: Get a set with metric sizes. It helps in taking off and putting back different bolts and nuts during the brake change.
  2. Torque Wrench: Use this to tighten bolts to the right level. This stops future problems with the brakes.
  3. C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Tool: This tool helps push back the caliper piston so you can fit new disc brake pads.
  4. Brake Bleeder Kit: After setting up, this kit helps remove air from the brake lines, making sure the brakes work well.

Having these tools will make the brake upgrade on your classic BMW much smoother.

Select Compatible Disc Brake Kit

Start by picking a disc brake kit that fits your classic BMW. The right kit improves your car's braking and keeps you safe. Check that the kit matches your BMW model, as older models can have special needs. Kits usually come with calipers, rotors, pads, and the needed hardware for specific models.

Look at what the kits are made of and how they are designed. Materials like carbon composite or ceramic help brakes work better by handling heat well and cutting down on fade. Rotors that are slotted or drilled can also help by letting air flow better and lowering the chance of brake fade.

When installing, it helps to have clear instructions. Choose kits that include step-by-step guides or offer customer support to help you. Some kits may need changes to fit right, so knowing this ahead of time makes things easier.

Brands like Brembo and Wilwood are known for good performance and reliability. It's a good idea to check BMW fan forums or talk to experts to hear what others think about certain kits.

Picking the right kit can make a big difference in how your car stops.

Remove Drum Brake Components

Start by lifting your BMW with a hydraulic jack.

Place jack stands underneath to keep it stable and safe.

Once the car is secure, take off the wheels to reveal the drum brake setup.

Here's how to remove the drum brake parts:

  • Take off the brake drum: If it's stuck because of rust, tap it gently to loosen it.
  • Remove the brake shoes: Use a brake spring tool to release the springs and take out the shoes.
  • Disconnect the wheel cylinder: Loosen the brake line and bolts to remove the cylinder from the backing plate.
  • Take out the backing plate: Unbolt it to clear the space for the new disc brakes.

If you encounter stuck bolts or parts, address them early.

Taking notes or pictures of each step can help, especially if your BMW has any unique features in its braking system.

Removing these parts properly is needed for installing the new disc brakes.

Install Disc Brake Parts

To install disc brake parts on a classic BMW:

  1. Attach the Bracket: Start by fixing the brake caliper bracket to the wheel hub with the right bolts. Make sure they are tight as per the car's manual.
  2. Place the Rotor: Put the brake rotor on the wheel hub. It should sit flat without moving around.
  3. Mount the Caliper: Place the caliper over the rotor and fix it to the bracket. The caliper should sit evenly over the rotor for balanced braking.
  4. Insert Brake Pads: Use high-quality brake pads that fit your BMW. Place them in the caliper correctly.
  5. Connect Brake Lines: Attach the brake lines securely. Check for any leaks to ensure everything works well.

Use care during installation to keep your brakes working well and lasting longer.

Adjust and Bleed Brakes

After putting in the disc brake parts, make sure the brakes work well by adjusting and bleeding them. This helps remove any air from the brake lines and keeps the system working right.

First, adjust the brake calipers so the pads press evenly on the rotors. This stops uneven wear and makes braking better.

Then, get rid of any air trapped in the system by bleeding the brakes. Here are some ways to do it:

  • Gravity Bleeding: Let gravity push out air and old brake fluid. It's simple but slow.
  • Manual Bleeding: One person pumps the brake pedal while another opens and closes the bleeder valve.
  • Vacuum Bleeding: Use a vacuum pump to pull brake fluid through the lines for a good clean.
  • Pressure Bleeding: A special tool pressurizes the reservoir, pushing fluid through the lines.

Keep the brake fluid level full during the process. This ensures your BMW's brakes work their best.

Test and Fine-Tune System

After adjusting and bleeding the brakes, test them to make sure they work well. First, drive slowly in a safe place like a parking lot. This helps you check how the brakes work without risking safety. Slowly go faster and use the brakes to see how they respond and stop. Listen for any strange noises or feel for vibrations, as these might mean something needs fixing.

Safety is key. Make sure the car is on a flat, open spot, and have a way to escape if the brakes don't work right. While testing, check that the brake pedal is firm and doesn't go to the floor. If it does, there might be air in the system or a leak.

See if the car stops straight without pulling to one side, which could mean uneven brake force. If there are problems, go back and check the setup and adjustments. You might need to tweak the brake balance to make sure the front and back brakes work well together.

This process ensures the brakes are reliable and perform well.

People Also Ask

What Are the Benefits of Upgrading to Disc Brakes on Classic BMWS?

Switching to disc brakes on classic BMWs helps the car stop better and cools down the brakes faster. It might cost more to set up at first, but it's worth it because it makes the car safer and easier to drive.

Are There Any Legal Restrictions for Upgrading Classic Car Brakes?

When you want to upgrade brakes on a classic car, you need to follow local laws to keep the car safe and legal to drive. This helps avoid problems with the law and keeps the car safe on the road.

Can I Perform the Upgrade Myself or Should I Hire a Professional?

You should hire a professional for brake upgrades to make sure your car stays safe and works right. Some people can do it themselves, but it's tricky. Professionals know how to handle complicated parts, especially in older cars.

How Does the Brake Upgrade Affect the Car's Value or Authenticity?

Upgrading a car's brakes can make it safer and more valuable because it performs better. However, it might not be as original as the old model, which could lower its value for collectors. It's important to find a balance between safety and keeping it original.

What Maintenance Is Required for Disc Brakes After Installation?

After putting on disc brakes, you need to check the brake fluid often and change it if needed. Look at the rotors for any damage or wear. If they are bad, they might need to be fixed or swapped out.

Justin

Hi, I'm Justin, a car enthusiast turned mechanic. The garage is my second home, where each engine and part tells a unique story. Seeing car owners frustrated with issues inspired me to start DIY Car Expert, offering reliable solutions to tackle problems with ease. 🚗✨

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