Why do Ford still use drum brakes?

Why Ford Still Uses Drum Brakes
Drum brakes are still used by Ford and other manufacturers for several reasons. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Cost: Drum brakes are generally cheaper to manufacture compared to disc brakes. They have fewer components and are simpler in design, which helps reduce production costs.
2. Parking Brake Functionality: Drum brakes have a built-in parking brake mechanism that is simple and effective. The wedging action of the shoe against the drum provides superior park brake functionality. Once the park brake is set, any attempt to rotate the wheel causes the drum brake to grip harder, similar to a wedge-type door stop.
3. Durability: Drum brakes are known to last longer than disc brakes. They have a longer lifespan and can withstand high mileage before needing replacement. This durability can save money for vehicle owners in the long run.
4. Safety and Stopping Power: While disc brakes generally provide better stopping power, the rear brakes in a vehicle contribute less to the overall stopping performance. Drum brakes can still provide sufficient stopping power for the rear wheels, ensuring safety and meeting regulatory requirements.
5. Application in Trucks: Drum brakes are commonly used in trucks that operate in challenging terrains and heavy applications. The multiple braking systems in trucks, including engine brakes, help ensure safety in demanding conditions.
It’s important to note that while drum brakes have their advantages, disc brakes are generally considered more effective in terms of stopping power and heat dissipation. However, the use of drum brakes by Ford and other manufacturers is a result of balancing factors such as cost, durability, and functionality.
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.

Why do pickup trucks still use drum brakes?

Drum brakes are typically used on heavier vehicles, such as trucks, because they can handle the increased weight and stress of stopping. One benefit of drum brakes is that they tend to be more durable than disc brakes and can last longer with proper maintenance.

Why don t trucks use disc brakes?

That said, history tells us that trucks operating in dusty or gritty environments such as gravel pits could see high rates of rotor wear. Probably no worse than drum wear under similar conditions, but rotors are much more expensive to replace. For that reason, many fleets that tried disc brakes have gone back to drums.

Why does Ford use drum brakes?

Drum brake advantages
Drum brakes can provide more braking force than an equal diameter disc brake. Drum brakes last longer because drum brakes have increased friction contact area than a disc. Drum brakes are cheaper to manufacture than disc brakes.

Why don’t they use drum brakes anymore?

As drum brakes provide easier wheel locking and it enables the vehicle to have a better parking brakes, they are still useful in modern cars. However, most of the stopping work is done by the front disc brakes as they provide better heat dissipation due to increased surface area of the rotor disc preventing major wear.

What was the last car to use drum brakes?

In the United States, the Jeep CJ-5 (manufactured by AM General) was the final automobile (produced for the United States Postal Service) to use front drum brakes when it was phased out in 1986.

Do drum brakes last longer than disc?

Brake drums are a durable part of the braking system and typically can last several thousand kilometres. They also generally last a bit longer than disc brakes due to the way they are built. They wear slower and are hardier, making them a great choice for passenger vehicles.

Are disc brakes safer than drum brakes?

Unless they’re in use again improving their longevity. The third Advantage is that if the drum brakes have not been used in a long time. They still tend to work better right from the get-go.

What are the disadvantages of drum brakes?

Disadvantages of a drum brake
They are thus only suitable for use at the rear axle of low-power/low-weight vehicles (up to middle class). Brake performance can seriously deteriorate at high temperatures (fading). Lining and drum replacement is a time-consuming business.

When did trucks stop using drum brakes?

1972 was the first year that front disc brakes were standard equipment on GM light duty trucks.

What are the cons of drum brakes?

Disadvantages of drum brakes

• Their components require a break-in period. Unlike disc brake pads, brake shoes require a longer break-in period.
• Poor heat dissipation. This ventilation problem occurs because drum brakes do not have the capacity to disperse the heat generated by friction.