Brake replacement (upgrade or replace OEM?)

[MJFrost]

I need to replace the brakes on my TJ, and I am thinking about upgrading the rear brakes to disc/calipers. Any pitfalls in doing this? Suggestions on any particular kit/parts I should go with? While I've got the brakes removed, any advice for other maintenance I should do?

Our jeep is mostly used for hitting the beach and light trails.

 

[fizzlebottom]

Everyone says installing discs on the rear will have nearly 0 performance impact, but sure will make future maintenance easier if you do it yourself. Considering how long the rear drum setup lasts, I honestly don't think the cost/benefit meets my personal criteria to upgrade to discs. It is highly likely you'll spend more on the disc conversion than it'd cost to pay a mechanic to replace every single component of the drum system.

 

[Chris]

You forgot the most important part, what size tires are you running?

 

[Apparition]

You should see what @mrblaine recommends

 

[mrblaine]

I need to replace the brakes on my TJ, and I am thinking about upgrading the rear brakes to disc/calipers. Any pitfalls in doing this? Suggestions on any particular kit/parts I should go with? While I've got the brakes removed, any advice for other maintenance I should do?

Our jeep is mostly used for hitting the beach and light trails.

What size tire? The only reason swap to rear discs in general is to not work on drum brakes. Minor benefits that are rarely noticed are less fade, and fully self adjusting. Drums are not as self adjusting as they could be and neglected versions cause more pedal travel, and higher parking brake handles until they are adjusted correctly.

 

[MJFrost]

What size tire? The only reason swap to rear discs in general is to not work on drum brakes. Minor benefits that are rarely noticed are less fade, and fully self adjusting. Drums are not as self adjusting as they could be and neglected versions cause more pedal travel, and higher parking brake handles until they are adjusted correctly.

Thanks for the quick reply! 32" x 11.5" tires. Not having to mess with drums is definitely one of my motivations. The drums currently in place are functional but rusted badly. I think I'm on borrowed time with them.

 

[Flivver250]

If it was mine, I'd freshen the drums brakes up. They really aren't bad to work on. Install all new bits and you may not have to touch it again for a few year (mileage depending). I'd guess you can go easily 30K+ on a set of shoes.

 

[Steve Rodgers]

There are threads here on doing the drums, read them.
I painted my drums with high heat paint, slows down the corrosion, doesn't seem to affect performance but then again, I don't drive aggressively. Take pictures of the parts before you disassemble them.
Spending the $$ on discs in back is only for looks and just not having drums, it really won't be noticed as far as braking is concerned.

 

[InOmaha]

Wouldn't it be better to just service the rear drums and spend the money you save on better front calipers, pads, and rotors if you need them?

Drum brakes are somewhat of a pain, but go on much easier with an assistant to help hold things in place while you set the springs. I agree with cleaning and painting the drums with high heat paint to make them look nicer depending on your wheels.

 

[MJFrost]

Wouldn't it be better to just service the rear drums and spend the money you save on better front calipers, pads, and rotors if you need them?

Drum brakes are somewhat of a pain, but go on much easier with an assistant to help hold things in place while you set the springs. I agree with cleaning and painting the drums with high heat paint to make them look nicer depending on your wheels.

Thanks, yes after getting feedback from y'all I've decided to replace the front brakes with upgraded rotors and powder coated calipers and stainless steel hoses. The rear drums are still functional, so I'll take some time to read up on them and replace them OEM in the next few months. Greatly appreciate the help!