The second-generation Toyota Tacoma is a powerhouse on and off the road, but upgrading your braking system with brake upgrades can significantly enhance performance and safety. That’s where R1 Concepts’ rear disc brake conversion kit comes in. Let’s break down why this upgrade is essential for serious Tacoma owners.
Why Upgrade to Rear Disc Brakes?
The factory setup on the second-gen Tacoma includes drum brakes in the rear, which are less effective under heavy-duty use. R1 Concepts’ rear disc conversion improves braking performance with features designed for better heat dissipation, control, and stopping power. For those looking for even more stopping power, big brake kits are an excellent option, offering larger calipers, rotors, and pads for enhanced performance.
Here are the main benefits:
- Two-Piece Rotor Design for Superior Heat DissipationWith a two-piece rotor, you get better control of heat buildup during braking. This design reduces the risk of brake fade, ensuring consistent performance even in tough conditions.
- Four-Piston Calipers for Better Clamping ForceThe kit upgrades your braking power by introducing four-piston calipers, offering significantly more clamping force than the stock drum brake system. This means shorter stopping distances and improved control, especially on larger, off-road tires.
Perfect Fit for Off-Road Enthusiasts
If you’re running a 17-inch wheel setup—common among off-road enthusiasts—this conversion fits perfectly. While we’re still working on compatibility for 16-inch wheels, the current kit maximizes brake performance without requiring oversized rims.
Choosing the Right Brake Components for Your Tacoma
When it comes to upgrading your Tacoma’s brake system, selecting the right components is crucial for optimal braking performance. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Brake Rotors: High-quality, slotted rotors are essential for excellent heat dissipation and minimizing brake fade. For even better performance, consider a big brake kit that includes larger rotors to enhance stopping power.
- Brake Pads: Opt for brake pads specifically designed for off-road use, offering superior heat resistance. High-performance brake pads are ideal for severe-duty braking, ensuring your Tacoma can handle the toughest conditions.
- Brake Lines: Upgrading to braided stainless steel lines can significantly improve brake pedal feel and responsiveness. These lines are more resistant to corrosion and can endure the rigors of off-road driving.
- Calipers: High-performance calipers provide enhanced braking power and heat dissipation. Look for calipers designed for off-road use to ensure durability and optimal performance.
By choosing the right brake components for your Tacoma, you can enhance your vehicle’s braking performance and reduce the risk of brake fade and other common brake issues.
Bolt-On Installation with Added Brake Rotors
R1 Concepts makes installation easy with a bolt-on design. The kit includes:
- Stainless Steel Brake Lines: These improve braking response and longevity by resisting expansion under pressure.
- Compatibility with Stock Brake Master Cylinder: Although upgrading your master cylinder isn’t required, doing so will provide a firmer brake pedal feel. Even with the stock cylinder, you’ll still notice a significant improvement in braking performance.
Bedding the Brakes: A Critical Step in the Installation Process
Bedding the brakes is a crucial step in the installation process that involves depositing a layer of pad material evenly across the braking surface of the rotor. This process helps to minimize squealing, increase braking torque, and maximize pad and rotor life.
To bed the brakes, follow these steps:
- Drive the vehicle at a moderate speed.
- Apply the brakes gently.
- Repeat the process several times.
- Gradually increase the braking pressure and speed to simulate real-world driving conditions.
By bedding the brakes, you can ensure that your brake system is functioning properly and provide optimal braking performance.
Enhanced Control and Stopping Power to Prevent Brake Fade
The difference between drum and disc brakes is evident, especially if you’ve upgraded your truck with larger tires or heavier equipment. Our rear disc conversion improves stopping power by providing a more balanced and controlled braking experience. This is crucial when handling heavier loads or navigating challenging terrain.
Off-Roading Brake Techniques: How to Maximize Brake Performance
Off-roading requires a unique set of brake techniques to maximize brake performance and maintain control of your vehicle. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Engine Braking: Use engine braking to slow down before entering a turn or descending a steep hill. This technique helps reduce the load on your brakes and prevents brake fade.
- Threshold Braking: Practice threshold braking to maintain control of your vehicle and optimize braking performance. This involves applying gentle pressure to the brake pedal and gradually increasing the pressure as needed.
- Left-Foot Braking: Use left-foot braking to improve vehicle control and stability in certain off-road scenarios. This technique involves applying gentle pressure to the brake pedal with your left foot while accelerating with your right foot.
By mastering these off-roading brake techniques, you can improve your vehicle’s braking performance and maintain control in challenging off-road conditions.
Tested and Proven for Optimal Braking Performance
We’ve tested the system on Tacomas with large 38-inch tires, and the results speak for themselves:
- Improved stopping distance
- More responsive pedal feel
- Increased control in off-road scenarios
Troubleshooting Common Brake Issues
Troubleshooting common brake issues can help you identify and fix problems before they become major issues. Here are some common brake issues and their solutions:
- Brake Fade: Brake fade occurs when the brakes become overheated and lose their effectiveness. To fix brake fade, upgrade to high-performance brake pads and rotors that provide excellent heat dissipation.
- Squealing Brakes: Squealing brakes can be caused by worn-out brake pads or improper brake pad installation. To fix squealing brakes, replace the brake pads and ensure proper installation.
- Soft Brake Pedal: A soft brake pedal can be caused by air in the brake lines or low brake fluid levels. To fix a soft brake pedal, bleed the brake lines and check the brake fluid levels.
By troubleshooting common brake issues, you can identify and fix problems before they become major issues and ensure optimal braking performance.
Final Words: This Upgrade is a Game-Changer
If you want to maximize your Tacoma’s braking performance, the R1 Concepts rear disc conversion is a must-have. Our system is designed to enhance safety, control, and durability for both everyday driving and off-road adventures.
Got questions? Drop us a comment or reach out on our social platforms. And remember, once you experience the difference, you’ll wonder why you didn’t upgrade sooner.
