A 5×5 rear disc brake conversion is an excellent way to boost your vehicle’s stopping power. The larger rotor size provides increased surface area, leading to improved thermal management and higher torque output.
This conversion uses fixed mount calipers that require spacers to fit the rotor and axle correctly, making installation slightly more complex than with floating calipers.
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Brake Rotors
When it comes to rotors, the better ones will last longer and resist corrosion better. Furthermore, they shed water more readily.
A rear disc brake conversion kit usually includes a set of calipers and mounting brackets. These pieces can be bolted onto many GM rear axlehousings such as the 10- and 12-bolt found on third-generation Camaros, Firebirds and Corvettes.
Caliper pistons come in either single or four-piston designs. The more pistons in a caliper, the larger its pad friction surface and thus increased braking power.
A caliper is attached to the spindle or axle housing with a bracket with guide pins or machined mating grooves. During braking, this flex can cause loss of effort and pedal feel.
Calipers
Your 5×5 rear disc brake conversion is the foundation of your new system, replacing existing stock drum brakes at the rear of your car or truck.
These caliper styles come in both fixed and floating varieties. The fixed calipers utilize multiple pistons for improved braking performance as well as increased heat dissipation.
Fixing a caliper allows for easier access to its brake pads, located on top. Most fixed calipers feature either a large cotter pin or bolt with lock nut that allows the pads to be taken apart for inspection and servicing.
5×5 rear disc brake conversion kits require upgraded rotors to achieve optimal brake performance. By increasing their diameter, you increase braking surface area and thus torque efficiency.
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Brake Lines
Converting from drum brakes to disc brakes requires new brake lines. These connect your rear caliper to the hard line mounted on the axle and come in two sizes – 3/16” and 1/4”.
Both types of pumps are widely used around the world and deliver pressurized fluid in equal amounts. Which size you select will depend on which hydraulic system your vehicle’s manufacturer utilizes.
Increase the pistons in your disc brake caliper to improve brake torque and minimize fade. It also moves the caliper away from the hub, which enhances heat transfer during acceleration.
Larger diameter rotors also aid thermal management by minimizing brake drag and increasing braking surface area. Furthermore, their internal cooling vanes have longer lengths which help dissipate heat more effectively.
Brake Booster
The brake booster is used to increase the force that your foot applies to the master cylinder in petrol-powered autos. It’s a straightforward system with two chambers separated by a diaphragm.
Depressing the brake pedal causes air to enter one chamber through a valve on the side facing the master cylinder, creating a vacuum which pulls on the rod through the diaphragm.
This causes the master cylinder piston to push against its rod and lever. As a result, this pulling forces the master cylinder piston back into its normal position, stopping the car.
If the brake pedal becomes difficult to press or feels like it’s sinking down, this could be indicative of an issue with the booster. In such cases, it’s best to get it checked out immediately.
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