Avoid the Hassle of Rear Caliper Adjustment with a Modern Self-Adjusting Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit
Not all rear disc brake conversion kits are created equal when considering how you want to replace your vehicle’s outdated drum brakes.
Some technology has been around for decades simply because that’s the way it’s always been done. If the technology is outdated and flawed, even if it is from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), you might want to consider modern replacements that make the conversion process easier and result in a more efficient braking system.
Sidebar: Should I upgrade my vehicle’s rear brakes from drum to disc?
Have you ever been in a position where you didn’t do something because you were under the impression it was going to take more work than you thought? This happened recently with a customer who rebuilt all his stock drum brakes and then learned more about what it takes to complete a disc brake conversion kit. If you’ve been considering a conversion, but don’t want to take on all that work, here are a few things to know before switching to power brakes. You can also read our how-to series to find out exactly what you’ll need to complete the job.
Commonly Used Conversion Kit with GM Caliper
There are many cheap rear disc brake conversion kits available today. These less expensive kits are based on an old OEM-sourced GM Caliper from an 1980s Cadillac. While this caliper works well enough, it definitely has its flaws and could be improved for an easier conversion process and a more efficient braking system.
Sidebar: Are OEM parts better than aftermarket?
Deciding to choose an OEM part depends on the cause of the replacement and which parts are being replaced. OEM parts are more expensive than other options, but they are not always superior. Aftermarket parts usually cost less, but there is a wide range of quality among brands, meaning you have to do your homework. Check out this article to learn more about the differences between OEM and aftermarket parts to find out if the extra cost is worth it.
Problems with the Old GM Caliper
Inexpensive rear brake conversion kits contain this 40-year-old caliper. This part has long been the standard for aftermarket conversion kits. However, there are several problems associated with this caliper that make them cumbersome and frustrating:
- The caliper requires continuous manual adjustment. The adjustment process involves a cumbersome initial adjustment followed by using the parking brake. Many people forego this part of the process altogether and further complicate the situation.
- The piston in this caliper is very large, causing an unbalanced system. This type of system can also require the use of a non-standard master cylinder with a larger bore size, which most people aren’t familiar with.
Our Modern Rear Brake Conversion Kit with Self-Adjusting Calipers
We’ve long known there were challenges with that caliper but never had a good option. After some long research, we decided to modernize our kits’ technology to make a more efficient system and eliminate the hassle of having to adjust the rear calipers.
Advantages
- The piston size is smaller in diameter, providing a better front-to-rear balance within the braking system.
- The new caliper mounts use a cast-iron anchor, providing rigidity to the system.
- Parking brake adjustment is no longer required.
Without the hassle of the outdated caliper, installation is easier and the entire system runs more smoothly.
Adjusting the Rear Calipers
There are two ways to easily adjust the calipers with the new kits: application of the parking brake or pressing and releasing the brake pedal several times.
“The best thing [about this new caliper] is that it stays in proper adjustment through simply using the brakes. Every application of the brakes keeps the caliper properly adjusted.“
– Master Power Brakes Expert Team
By simply using your brakes, you’re keeping your calipers in alignment. It’s that simple!
Classic Look, Modern Technology
You want to keep the look of your classic car as true to the original as possible. Keep the look, but upgrade the technology for safety, efficiency, and ease of use.
Choose one of our modern, self-aligning rear disc brake conversion kits and never worry about rear caliper adjustment again.