Converting rear drums to discs

Pielet · #1 08-15-2009, 08:17 AM

Hey everyone. Have a 2000 xlt, has drums in the rear, I don't like them. Has anyone converted the rears to discs? I see they sell rotors on ebay for rangers/mountaineers, so did some rangers come with rear discs I assume? So in theory, I should just be able to pick up all the parts and they should just swap right out? Correct me if I am wrong, or if it actually isn't as easy as it sounds. Lol. Thanks!

STL · #2 08-15-2009, 08:26 AM

NO cant just get rotors and swap

Find a explorer with disc and swap the whole axle.

All u will need to do it relocate the spring perch

Only reason they list them for mountaineer is cause mountaineer and explorer share some parts

STL · #3 08-15-2009, 08:50 AM

I forgot there are some companies that make conversion kits

But they cost a butt load and it's cheaper to swap in a explorer axle

SSBC sells a bolt on rear disc brake conversion for Rangers
SSBC :: SSBC Performance Brake Systems

Explorer Rear Disc Brake Conversion

RangerJustin · #4 08-15-2009, 10:16 AM

IIRC correctly they are making rear disc brakes standard on Rangers starting this upcoming model year...so there may be an easy swap...unless they are just goin to be using expy axles on rangers now...

STL · #5 08-15-2009, 10:45 AM

Thats right Justin they are going standard in 2010 on rangers maybe a year before you start seeing any in a junk yard though

98blownranger · #6 08-16-2009, 08:58 AM

you can swap parts you dont need to swap the whole axle, but you will need all the brake parts.. caliper disk and mounting parts and new brake line, look at a junk yard you sould be able to get everything for $150

STL · #7 08-16-2009, 01:58 PM

If you don't notch the back plate to fit around the axle you will need to remove the shafts to install it

STL · #8 08-16-2009, 02:23 PM

This is the COBRA 12" vented rear rotors and COBRA calipers. You will need to notch the caliper brackets so they mount behind the axle flange
You could cut the drum backing plate off but it would have to be done delicately or you could damage the axle tube and mounting flange. The time it would take you to do it you could have the axles out in 1/2 the time. It took me like 10 minutes to pull the axles.

- pull rear end inspection cover
- drain fluid
- undo center pin bolt
- pull pin out
- push axles in
- pull "C" clips (x2)
- pull axles out

Stock not notched

If u wanna notch them can find them on eBay or do it your self

mr.ranger · #9 08-16-2009, 07:39 PM

nice pics, plus how badare your drum brakes that you want to switch??

Johnbaum13 · #10 08-17-2009, 12:54 PM

In my experience, the rear drums on the 7.5" axle on the Ranger are almost pointless. I love my Expo 12" rotors now.

Pielet · #11 08-17-2009, 11:08 PM

My drums aren't bad, I just prefer Disc Brakes. Look better, easier to change.