Best Drum to Disc Brake Conversion Kits for Cars and ATVs
Upgrading from drum to disc brakes can improve stopping power, fade resistance, and overall safety. This guide highlights five reliable drum-to-disc brake conversion kits from established brands that cover cars and ATVs. Each kit is chosen for ease of installation, completeness, and documented performance. Use the quick reference table below to compare core details at a glance, then dive into the product sections for deeper specs and installation notes.
| Product | Brand | Compatibility | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speedway Motors Bolt-On Rear Disc Kit (GM 10/12) | Speedway Motors | GM 10 and 12 bolt rear ends (mid-size cars) | Complete bolt-on kit with brackets, rotors, calipers, hardware |
| GELUOXI Ford 8″/9″ Rear Disc Conversion | GELUOXI | Ford 8″ and 9″ small bearing rear axles | Modular shims and flanges for fitment versatility |
| Speedway Motors Deluxe Disc Kit Chevy Full-Size | Speedway Motors | 1955–1964 Chevy full-size drum spindles | Enhanced braking with a complete bolt-on setup |
| SuperATV Front Disc Kit For Honda Rancher | SuperATV | Honda Rancher 350 4×4 and other listed models | Front-disc conversion with compatible wheel options |
| SuperATV Rear Disc Kit For Honda 4×4 ATV | SuperATV | Honda 2×4/4×4 Utilities with 12″ or larger wheels | Replacement for stock rear drum brakes with robust components |
Speedway Motors Bolt-On Rear Disc Kit (GM 10/12)
This bolt-on rear disc brake conversion is designed for GM 10 and 12 bolt rear ends in mid-size cars, offering a cost-conscious upgrade to modern braking performance. The kit provides a straightforward path to improved stopping power without extensive fabrication. It ships as a complete package with the necessary hardware for installation.
- Includes two bolt-on caliper brackets, two vented rotors, two metric calipers, and hardware
- Simple bolt-on installation; no welding required
- Designed for GM 10/12 bolt rear axles in mid-size cars
- Not suitable for full-size cars, pickups, or 7.5″ 10 bolt axles
Crown Automotive RT31006 Disc Brake Conversion Kit
The Crown Automotive kit is Jeep-oriented, offering a dedicated solution to convert drum to disc on specific Jeep models. While details are concise, the listing emphasizes Jeep compatibility and reliable construction, with a 12-month context implied by the product notes. The kit is positioned as a straightforward upgrade for Jeep applications that previously relied on drum brakes.
- Jeep-focused drum-to-disc conversion
- 12-month style/quality framing in listing
- Compatibility depends on specific Jeep models
GELUOXI Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit (Ford 8″/9″)
The GELUOXI kit targets Ford 8″ and 9″ small bearing rear axles, offering a modular fit with shims and flange options to adapt to a range of rear axles. Installation notes indicate wheel size requirements (14″ discs or larger) and the need to remove the axle for proper mounting. This kit is designed to minimize welding or fabrication while improving rear braking performance.
- For Ford 8″ and 9″ small bearing axles
- Includes shims and multiple flange options
- Requires 14″ discs or larger wheels; axle removal may be needed
Speedway Motors Deluxe Disc Kit Chevy Full-Size
This deluxe kit is designed for 1955-1964 Chevy full-size cars with stock drum brake spindles. It promises a marked improvement in braking performance and is marketed as a comprehensive bolt-on solution. The kit is intended to simplify upgrades by providing all necessary components in one package, reducing the need to source separate parts.
- Optimized for Chevy full-size drums spindles
- Noted for enhanced braking performance
- Comprehensive kit with all required components
SuperATV Front Disc Brake Kit For Honda Rancher
This front-disc conversion targets multiple Honda ATV models, including Rancher variants, 4×4 and related models. It accommodates 12″ steel wheels or larger and is designed to replace stock drum brakes with a disc setup. The kit emphasizes improved braking power and overall reliability, with emphasis on a straightforward bolt-on installation and included, compatible pads.
- Fits Honda Rancher 350 4×4 and related models
- Works with 12″ steel wheels or larger
- Includes disc pads and related hardware; longer pad life with sintered bronze option
SuperATV Rear Disc Kit For Honda 4×4 ATV
This rear disc brake conversion is designed for Honda 2×4 and 4×4 Utility ATVs with a 12″ or larger steel wheel and existing rear drum brakes. It’s positioned as the most practical upgrade to replace high-maintenance drum brakes with a durable disc system, and it includes mounting hardware to streamline installation.
- Targeted for Honda 2×4/4×4 utilities with larger wheels
- Replaces rear drum brakes with a complete kit
- Includes necessary mounting hardware and components
Buying Guide
Choosing the right drum-to-disc conversion kit involves balancing fitment, performance, and installation effort. Start by clarifying whether you need a front- or rear-axle upgrade, and verify compatibility with your vehicle’s axle size, wheel diameter, and mounting points. Consider whether the kit includes calipers, rotors, brackets, and hardware, or if you must source parts separately. For daily driving, prioritize kits with proven reliability and easier bolt-on installation; for classic restorations or off-road use, emphasize rotor venting, pad material, and availability of upgrade options like parking brakes.
Key considerations include wheel size and clearance, rotor type (vented vs solid), and pad material. Vented rotors help dissipate heat under repeated braking, reducing fade on longer trips or hill climbs. Pad material (organic, semi-metallic, or sintered bronze) affects wear, bite, and temperature tolerance. If you rely on a tandem braking system, confirm compatibility with factory master cylinder and ABS; some kits work well with stock hydraulics, while others may require boosters or compatible mounting plates.
Installation practicality matters too. Bolt-on kits promise minimal downtime but still require basic mechanical skill, proper torque specs, and alignment. Some kits rely on specific wheel sizes or spacers, so verify compatibility with your existing wheels and tires. Warranty and customer support can be crucial when retrofitting braking components on older vehicles or ATVs. Finally, evaluate overall cost against expected performance gains and maintenance needs to ensure long-term value.
Buying Guide At A Glance
| Factor | What To Check | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Car vs ATV, front vs rear axle | Ensures proper fitment and braking balance |
| Wheel Compatibility | Wheel diameter, width, and clearance | Avoids interference and fit issues |
| Kit Completeness | Brackets, rotors, calipers, hardware, and cables | Reduces need for extra purchases |
| Rotor And Pad Quality | Ventilated rotors, pad material | Affects heat handling and wear |
| Installation Difficulty | Bolt-on vs requires machining | Impacts time and skill needed |
Overall, selecting the right drum-to-disc kit requires aligning the kit’s specific fitment with your vehicle’s setup and your use case. For daily drivers, look for robust kits with clear installation instructions and reliable parts. For classic cars, prioritize authenticity of mounting points and rotors. For off-road or performance applications, favor kits with superior heat management and dependable braking response. By evaluating compatibility, completeness, and long-term maintenance needs, you can choose a kit that delivers safer, more confident braking across conditions.