Extra stopping power with Bendix Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drum Upgrade Kit

Many of the four-wheel-drive utes on Australian and New Zealand roads and their SUV equivalents feature a rear drum braking set-up, and although we’re now seeing more of this style vehicle leave the factory with disc brakes on all corners, there are still certain advantages to brake drums.

There are a lot of 4WDs on local roads using rear drum brake systems that would benefit from Bendix's Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drum Upgrade Kit.

For the manufacturer, drum brakes are typically more cost effective to produce; for the braking technician, these brakes are simpler to maintain, and for the owner, drum brake components such as shoes can last longer owing to a larger friction contact area – replacement parts also normally cost less.

Additionally, for drivers who regularly head off the beaten track, the enclosed nature of drum brakes means that components are better protected from water, mud and debris.

There are some disadvantages to drum brakes though. Just as the enclosed drum provides ingress protection, a downside is that with less ventilation it’s more difficult for heat to dissipate in drum brakes. Heat is the major enemy of braking performance – it can cause brake fade and also glaze the friction material on the brake shoe or brake pad – and the end result is compromised stopping power.

For owners of four-wheel-drive vehicles with rear drum brakes, Bendix offers its Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drum Upgrade Kit, which can deliver braking performance gains of up to 15 per cent compared to OEM drum brakes.

The drum brake upgrade kits are available for popular four-wheel-drive wagons and dual cab utes, and include a pair of Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drums, compatible Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Shoes and a can of Bendix Cleanup for a fuss-free installation.

Depending on the make and model 4WD the Upgrade Kit is fitted to, braking performance gains of up to 15 per cent can be expected compared to OEM drum brakes.

The drum brake upgrade kits are available for popular four-wheel-drive wagons and dual cab utes, and include a pair of Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drums, compatible Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Shoes and a can of Bendix Cleanup for a fuss-free installation.

The improved braking performance is achieved by using drums manufactured with high carbon metallurgy, which better expels heats while providing increased strength. The hub is also treated with corrosion inhibitors providing a great, long-lasting appearance through the rim. For ease of fitment, the drums also feature a Swiftfit coating, this is a special surface protection treatment that does away with the need for anti-rust oil or coating, saving time for technicians, as no cleaning is required prior to fitment.

The Bendix Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drum Upgrade Kit includes a pair of Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Drums, compatible Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Shoes and a can of Bendix Cleanup for a fuss-free installation.

Further boasting braking performance are brake shoes that are GG Friction rated (provide great all-round performance in most driving conditions), and use higher friction than OE equivalents for better stopping performance. The steel component of the shoe is also painted to provide improved corrosion resistance. And as with the entire Bendix Ultimate 4WD™ range, these products are designed tough to meet the rigours of our demanding local conditions and applications.

Bendix Ultimate 4WD™ Brake Shoes can also be purchased as standalone components if preferred.

For further information:

For more information free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8am-5pm Monday to Friday EST), e-mail us at: brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or visit our website www.bendix.com.au