Goodbye Drums, Hello Performance: Transforming a 3rd Gen Tacoma with R1 Concepts’ Big Brake Kit
Dr. Rex from the R1 Crew recently upgraded one of our ambassador builds, Tiffany’s third-generation Toyota Tacoma, with a full rear disc brake conversion using our CUSTOM Big Brake Kit. This upgrade is more than cosmetic. It provides real stopping power, better performance, and a modern look that matches today’s driving demands.
This blog walks through the installation process, why rear drum brakes fall short, and how R1 Concepts offers a tailored solution for 2016 to 2023 Tacomas.
What’s the Problem with Factory Rear Drums?
Toyota continues to equip many Tacoma models with rear drum brakes. While they are inexpensive to manufacture, they are outdated in performance and design. For Tacoma owners who are modifying their trucks for overlanding, towing, or off-road use, drum brakes quickly become a weak point.
In the video, Dr. Rex points out that the factory drum system uses a simple wheel cylinder and brake shoes that expand outward to stop the vehicle. While functional, the design lacks the power and heat management needed for modified vehicles or heavier loads. Drum brakes also tend to be more difficult to maintain and less responsive under repeated use.
The Upgrade: R1 Concepts Rear Disc Conversion Big Brake Kit
To fix this, Tiffany’s Tacoma was outfitted with the R1 Concepts four-piston rear Big Brake Kit. Designed specifically for third-generation Tacomas from 2016 through 2023, this kit replaces the outdated drum setup with a high-performance rear disc system.
Key features of the Big Brake Kit include:
- Four-piston calipers for improved clamping force and control
- Vented rotors for superior heat dissipation under load
- A clean, modern appearance to match aggressive builds
- Improved brake modulation and shorter stopping distances
For optimal performance, this kit can be paired with our R1 PERFORMANCE Off-Road/Tow Series Brake Pads or R1 CERAMIC Series Brake Pads depending on your driving needs.
Pro tip: When bleeding the brake system, always begin with the caliper farthest from the master cylinder to ensure proper air removal.
Why Rear Brake Upgrades Matter
While most braking force comes from the front, rear brakes play a critical role in stability and load handling. Upgrading from drums to discs provides several benefits:
- Balanced braking during towing and off-road use
- Better temperature management during long descents
- Easier maintenance and pad replacement
- A noticeable improvement in brake response and feel
This upgrade is especially valuable for Tacoma owners who have added larger wheels, rooftop tents, trailers, or other heavy accessories.
See the Build in Action
The full installation is available on our official Instagram and YouTube pages. Watch Dr. Rex as he walks through the removal of the drum brakes, installation of the backing plate, new hardware setup, and system bleeding.
Watch now at r1concepts.com or follow us @r1concepts for the full behind-the-scenes.
Ready to Upgrade Your Tacoma?
If you are ready to convert your Tacoma’s rear drums to a high-performance disc setup, visit r1concepts.com. You can also contact us directly through Facebook or Instagram. Our sales team is ready to help you choose the right kit for your build and driving style.
