3 Common Issues With Disc Brake Conversions
Converting to disc brakes is one of the first upgrades classic car owners go for. This improves your ride quality, safety, and even adds a bit to the look of the vehicle. It’s safe to say that this upgrade is a major step in the right direction.
However, we’ll be focusing on the flip side of that medal. Namely, on things that can go wrong after you convert to disc brakes. Having all the info will ensure you’re making the right decision, way before you take your ride to classic car service in Orange County.
What are some frequent issues during disc brake conversions?
There are undeniable benefits to switching from drum to disc brakes. Still, issues, while uncommon, remain possible. Let’s see what they are and why they happen:
Unprofessional installation
Most disc brake issues happen because of an unprofessional disc brake conversion process. Disc brakes come in the form of pre-made conversion kits, which means that most people presume it’s super easy to install them.
The truth is that this is a major upgrade, crucial for your safety. So, yes, you can DIY it, but only if you have ample experience. In every other case, it’s best to let Orange County’s experts handle the conversion.
Unsuitable fit
This is among the most common disc brake conversion issues classic car owners experience. Manufacturers don’t test every single fitment. Therefore, it is possible that parts you get in a disc brake conversion kit won’t fit as they’re supposed to. This inconvenience can cause a lot of issues down the road, including a complete brake failure.
Since this problem occurs straight on the assembly line, there are only two ways to address it:
Invest in high-quality components, although they’re more expensive;
Test your luck by replacing the kit with a new one from the same manufacturer.
Unsuitable fit may seem like a minor issue. But, it can cause a mass of problems, especially in the long run.
Overheating
Car brakes convert kinetic energy into heat. However, in some cases, this process gets taken to the extreme. The most common culprit is among the two previously mentioned issues. Both can cause the entire brake system to malfunction, especially on more demanding routes, such as Santiago Canyon, for instance.
Some overheating related problems include:
Cracks and warping of the rotor. This issue often manifests through vibrations of the brake pad or the entire car, when you step on the brake;
Glazing of the brake pads. Glazed pads lose the grip of the rotor, thus reducing overall braking efficiency;
Caliper failure. Heat can cause caliper pistons to either fail to engage (loss of braking power in a corresponding wheel) or disengage (car starts pulling to one side, overheating pads and rotors, causing them to burn);
Boiling brake fluid due to excessive heat transfer. Brake fluid loses the ability to compress, thus drastically reducing braking effectiveness.
While mentioned problems can cause overheating, the opposite is true, too. It is a vicious circle that can end up in the complete failure of the braking system.
Which classic car service in Orange County can most reliably help me avoid common disc brake conversion issues?
Disc brake conversion issues won’t be an issue for a vintage vehicle owner in Orange County. Here, you have access to Chimera Motors – one of the leading experts in classic car restoration, modification, and modernization. Professional treatment from our trained mechanics will ensure your ride’s safety and reliability. Give us a call today and enjoy a problem-free ride for years to come.
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