Drum to Disc

[ck1105]

Has anyone done any research on swapping drums for disc brakes? I have a tandem axle dorsey and need new brakes anyway, i have been considering the switch, what all is involved and can it even be done, also can you switch it from two tires to all four? Any info helps, thanks....

[ag4ever]

RE: Drum to Disc

Yes it can be done. Sometimes you can even keep the same actuator, with one modification. You have to poke a hole in the risidualy pressure valve.

The brake themselves are just a matter of unbolting the drums, and bolting on the disks. Even adding a second set should not be a problem.

I would say the only thing to check is that your actuator can produce the required pressure for disks, as they do require a higher line pressure.

[ffmedic74]

RE: Drum to Disc

I did this and ended up buying a disk brake actuator (has more power to compensate for less pad), reverse lockout, and kodiak disk brakes. Worked very well!

[Rick]

RE: Drum to Disc

There is a how-to article in either the july or August TrailerBoat magazine. I would suggest you use UFP pieces They are used by alot of tralier companys Here is the link http://www.ufpnet.com

[MNSuperAir]

RE: Drum to Disc

I have also been looking into this. Follow the attached link and download the .pdf for doesey replacement parts. Then give them a call. They are very helpful. I haven't made the switch yet, but hope to.

www.trailersbydorsey.com

[MNSuperAir]

RE: Drum to Disc

Sorry to beat this to death, but I just got off the phone with Jeff from Dorseya nd he has a kit to change over to disc. Price for me was $380 which included a new master cylinder and converting the drum to disc breaks with oil bath.

[Rick]

RE: Drum to Disc

Sounds like a steal to me. Male sure you have a 5 wire electrical on your tow vehicle. the 5th wire is blue and is a reverse actuated signal to allow you to back up.

[ag4ever]

RE: Drum to Disc

Most actuators for disk have some form of "jamming system" to prevent the brakes from getting pressure while backing. It can be as simple as a pin that is added before backing. This keeps you from having to have the 5-wire setup, but the 5-wire is much better.

[MNSuperAir]

RE: Drum to Disc

The "kit" that Dorsey was talking about included an actuator that was activated from the 5th wire. Seems like a good deal to me. I may just have to buy it. It was going to be a winter project though.