What year did they stop putting drum brakes on cars?
As an auto service expert with years of experience, I often get asked about the evolution of car braking systems, particularly the transition from drum brakes to disc brakes. Understanding this shift not only highlights advancements in automotive technology but also emphasizes the importance of safety in modern vehicles.
The Rise and Fall of Drum Brakes
Drum brakes were once the standard braking system in most vehicles, particularly in the mid-20th century. They consist of a cylindrical drum that rotates with the wheel, and brake shoes that press against the drum to create friction and slow down the vehicle. However, as automotive technology progressed, the limitations of drum brakes became apparent.
Transition to Disc Brakes
By the late 1960s and early 1970s, many manufacturers began to phase out drum brakes in favor of disc brakes, which offered several advantages:
- Improved Performance: Disc brakes provide better stopping power and heat dissipation, making them more effective, especially in high-performance and heavy vehicles.
- Reduced Fade: Unlike drum brakes, disc brakes are less prone to brake fade, which occurs when the brakes overheat and lose effectiveness.
- Maintenance: Disc brakes are generally easier to inspect and replace, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.
By the 1980s, most new vehicles were equipped with disc brakes on the front wheels, and by the 1990s, it became common for cars to have disc brakes on all four wheels. Today, drum brakes are primarily found on older vehicles and some budget models, particularly in the rear, where they are used for cost-saving reasons.
Conclusion
In summary, while drum brakes were once a staple in automotive design, their decline began in the late 1960s, with a significant shift towards disc brakes occurring throughout the 1970s and 1980s. This transition reflects the automotive industry's commitment to enhancing safety and performance, ensuring that modern vehicles meet the demands of today's drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did front disc brakes become mandatory?
1970s
In 1965, the Chevrolet Corvette, a 350 – 375 horsepower car, used disc brakes on all four wheels. American automotive manufacturers continued to use internal drum brakes in the mid-1970s. But as vehicles got heavier and faster, disc brakes became the new standard. Every vehicle since the 1970s has front disc brakes.
When did disc brakes replace drum brakes?
From the 1960s to the 1980s, disc brakes gradually replaced drum brakes on the front wheels of cars (which receive the majority of braking force). Now practically all cars use disc brakes on the front wheels, and many use disc brakes on all four wheels.
When did cars stop using drum brakes?
> Until perhaps 10 years ago, drum brakes were standard as the rear brakes of almost every car. You need to go back more than that. In the 80s nearly every car had rear drum brakes, that phased out in the early 90s or so. Only the very cheapest cars had drums past that timeframe.
Are drum brakes better than disc brakes?
Disc brakes offer superior stopping power and heat dissipation, making them ideal for performance-oriented vehicles and demanding driving conditions. Drum brakes, with their cost-effectiveness and durability, are a practical choice for everyday vehicles and less intensive braking demands.
What year did cars start using disc brakes?
The Citroën DS was the first sustained mass production use of modern automotive disc brakes, in 1955. The car featured caliper-type front disc brakes among its many innovations. These discs were mounted inboard near the transmission and were powered by the vehicle's central hydraulic system.
Why are drum brakes not used anymore?
Drum brakes are less efficient than disk brakes and harder to service. Drum brakes will also overheat and fade more quickly than disk brakes, increasing your stopping distance.
