To upgrade from drum to disc brakes on a classic Chrysler, start by assessing the advantages such as enhanced cooling efficiency and faster stopping power, which improve safety. Assemble the required parts: brake calipers, rotors, a compatible master cylinder, and a torque wrench. Prepare by inspecting the vehicle for rust, organizing tools, and ensuring a clean workspace. Secure the vehicle with jack stands and remove the wheels and drum brakes. Install the new disc system by positioning the rotor, attaching the caliper bracket, and aligning the pads and caliper. Conduct thorough testing to check for leaks and ensure proper alignment. Discover the full transformative potential and benefits of this upgrade in specific scenarios.
Benefits of Disc Brakes
Switching from drum brakes to disc brakes on a classic Chrysler makes braking more efficient and safe.
Disc brakes cool down better because their open design lets air flow around the rotor. Drum brakes, on the other hand, are closed, which can cause them to overheat and work less effectively when used a lot.
Disc brakes also stop more smoothly, especially when it's wet, since water can easily run off the rotor. Drum brakes might hold onto water, which can make them less effective.
Disc brakes have a simple setup where calipers press brake pads against rotors. This makes them easier to check and fix. Unlike drum brakes, disc brakes adjust themselves, so they keep working well over time without needing manual tweaks.
The way disc brakes are spread out on the axles also helps the car handle better and stay steady, which is important during quick stops.
Tests show that cars with disc brakes can stop about 30% faster than those with drum brakes. This quicker stopping helps make driving safer, especially in busy traffic where quick reactions are needed.
Upgrading to disc brakes is a good way for classic Chrysler owners to improve safety and performance.
Required Tools and Parts
To switch a classic Chrysler from drum to disc brakes, you need specific tools and parts. Having the right tools makes the job easier. You'll need a set of wrenches, a tool for the brake caliper, a torque wrench, and a jack with stands to lift the car safely. A C-clamp or a special tool is also needed to push back the brake pistons.
For the parts, get high-quality ones for good braking. You'll need disc brake rotors, calipers, brake pads, and a master cylinder made for disc brakes. You might also need new brake lines or hoses because drum brakes use different ones.
Here's a simple list of some basic tools and parts needed:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Brake Caliper Tool | Adjusts the caliper pistons |
| Disc Brake Rotors | Provides the surface for braking |
| Master Cylinder | Fits disc brake systems |
These items are a starting point. Check your car's manual and maybe talk to a mechanic to make sure these parts fit your Chrysler.
Preparing Your Chrysler
Before you switch your Chrysler from drum to disc brakes, get everything ready for the job. A good setup makes things go smoothly and helps your new brakes last longer.
Start by checking your car closely. Look for rust or damage in the wheel wells or suspension parts. These can cause problems later.
Get all the right papers and guides you need, like service manuals for your Chrysler model. These will help you with the details during the change.
Make sure your workspace is ready and well-organized. This will help you avoid delays and mistakes.
Here's how to prep your Chrysler:
- Check and Clean: Clean the wheel area and look for any damage.
- Get the Right Papers: Have service manuals and diagrams for your model.
- Sort Tools and Parts: Arrange tools and parts in a sensible order.
- Keep It Safe: Use jack stands and wheel chocks to keep the car steady.
Removing Drum Brakes
To take off drum brakes from a classic Chrysler, follow these steps. First, park the car on a flat surface and use jack stands to make sure it's stable and safe.
Take off the wheels so you can reach the drum brakes. Use a lug wrench to loosen and take off the wheel nuts, then slide the wheel off the hub.
With the wheel off, you'll see the brake drum. On classic Chryslers, the drum might be held by screws or just by being tight. If there are screws, use a screwdriver to remove them. If the drum is stuck due to rust or wear, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Be careful not to hit it too hard to avoid damaging the parts underneath.
Once the drum is off, you can see the brake parts like springs, shoes, and adjusters. Use tools like brake spring pliers and adjuster wrenches to carefully take these parts apart.
Keep your workspace tidy and label parts to avoid mix-ups. Dispose of the old brake parts properly, following local rules.
Installing Disc Brakes
You have removed the drum brakes and are now ready to put on the disc brakes for your classic Chrysler. This change will help your car stop better and last longer. Here's how you do it:
- Put the Rotor On: Place the new rotor on the wheel hub. Make sure it fits right and doesn't move around.
- Attach the Caliper Bracket: Use the bolts that come with it to connect the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle. Make sure the bolts are tight enough so nothing shifts when you brake.
- Insert the Brake Pads: Slide the brake pads into the caliper bracket. Check that the part that grips the rotor is facing the right way.
- Fix the Caliper: Place the caliper over the pads and rotor. Then, attach it to the caliper bracket with bolts. Ensure the caliper can slide back and forth so it can adjust as the pads wear down.
Testing and Adjustments
Once you have put the disc brakes on your classic Chrysler, it is key to test and adjust them for good performance and safety. Start by checking the brakes while the car is not moving. Look for leaks in the brake lines and make sure all parts are tightly connected.
See if the calipers and rotors line up well and have enough space. You might need to make changes if you see any uneven wear on the rotors.
After checking the brakes without moving the car, test them while driving. Use a safe road to try braking at different speeds and check how well the brakes work. They should stop the car well without needing much force on the pedal.
If the car pulls to one side, you may need to adjust the calipers again.
How the brake pedal feels is also important. It should feel firm, which means the brakes are working well. If it feels soft or spongy, you might need to bleed the brake lines to get rid of air.
Keep checking and adjusting the brakes to make sure they keep working reliably.
People Also Ask
What Is the Average Cost of Upgrading From Drum to Disc Brakes?
Switching from drum to disc brakes usually costs between $300 and $800 for each axle. This price covers parts and labor but can change depending on your car type, the quality of parts, and local labor costs.
Can I Upgrade Only the Front Brakes to Disc and Leave the Rear as Drum?
Yes, you can change only the front brakes to disc and keep the back ones as drums. This can make your car stop better. Just make sure they fit well and ask a mechanic to help you check if everything works right.
Are There Any Safety Concerns to Be Aware of During the Upgrade Process?
When upgrading brakes, make sure all parts fit together well and are installed right. Check that the main cylinder and valve work with disc brakes. This helps keep the brakes working safely and prevents any problems.
How Long Does the Entire Brake Upgrade Process Typically Take?
Upgrading brakes usually takes a few hours to a whole day. The time depends on how skilled you are, if you have all the parts, and if you run into any problems. So, it might be quick or take longer if things get tricky.
Do I Need to Notify My Insurance Company About the Brake Upgrade?
Tell your insurance company if you change your car's brakes. Changing parts like brakes can affect your insurance. Letting them know helps keep your policy right and might change how much you pay for insurance.