55-59 Chevy Truck Rear Disc Brake Conversion
Upgrading your 55-59 Chevy truck's rear brakes from drums to discs is a popular modification among truck enthusiasts. The benefits of this conversion include improved stopping power, better brake modulation, and reduced brake fade. In this article, we'll go over the steps involved in performing a rear disc brake conversion on your Chevy truck.
Step 1: Remove the old brake drums
The first step in the conversion process is to remove the old brake drums. To do this, you'll need to remove the wheel and tire, then use a drum puller to remove the drum from the hub. Once the drum is removed, you can disconnect the brake lines and remove the brake shoes, backing plate, and other drum brake components.
Step 2: Install the new disc brake components
With the old drum brake components removed, it's time to install the new disc brake components. This includes the rotor, caliper, caliper bracket, and brake pads. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing these components.
Step 3: Install the parking brake cables
One of the challenges of a rear disc brake conversion is finding a way to install the parking brake cables. There are several ways to do this, but one popular method is to use a conversion kit that includes a new parking brake cable bracket and cable.
Step 4: Bleed the brakes
Once all the new brake components are installed, it's important to bleed the brakes to remove any air from the brake lines. This will ensure that the brakes operate smoothly and efficiently.
Step 5: Test the brakes
After bleeding the brakes, it's important to test them to make sure they're working properly. Take the truck for a test drive and perform several hard stops to make sure the brakes are providing enough stopping power.
Conclusion
Performing a rear disc brake conversion on your 55-59 Chevy truck can be a challenging but rewarding project. With the right tools and instructions, you can improve your truck's stopping power and overall performance. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and take your time to ensure a proper installation.