SEMA 2011: Baer Brakes Now Offers Full Floating Axle Conversions

^[1]We stopped by to see our friends at Baer Brakes ^[2] and were pleasantly surprised to find a terrific new addition to their line of brake and rotor products, a full floating axle conversion kit for any live axle rear end.

Dutch Miller, Technician at Baer Brakes explained that the full floating axle conversion kit “won the SEMA award for Best Engineered New Product at this year’s SEMA tradeshow.”

According to Miller, “traditional flanged axles rely on single axle bearing so the weight of the vehicle is supported by that bearing and the axle. Our new full floating axle employs two axle bearings to support the vehicle’s weight which eliminates the axle deflection that occurs when lateral forces increase in higher cornering speeds.”

Miller states “these conversion kits are perfect for Pro Touring and road racing cars where axle deflect, bow or bend with rising lateral forces in cornering.”

Kits are offered for live axle rear ends, Ford 9 inch, Dana rear ends, GM 10 or 12 bolt and many others.

“Major benefits to these kits included ABS compatibility and a supplied parking brake as a feature. This is the only full floating axle kit that I am aware of having parking brake capabilities,” added Miller.

^[3]Starting with a goal of eliminating axle deflection and minimizing knock back, as well as improve overall handling of the car, Baer chose to utilize durable floating axle technology that has become more common in many forms of racing.

How Baer Implemented Engineering to Achieve This Goal:

• By using full floating axle technology, Baer was able to make the axle a drive mechanism only
• The hub is assembled utilizing two massive bearings that are spaced for maximum load capacity
• ARP 1/2-20 studs are installed in the drive plate
• The drive plate is manufactured from 4130 chromoly steel
• All components are machine to specific tolerances and thickness to ensure maximum strength and fitment

^[4]Kits include precision machined steel spindles for the housing ends, Billet backing plate with 1 piece parking brake shoe, retainer, actuator and hardware as well as the hub assembly with bearings, races, seals, studs and rotor plates and related hardware.

Brake rotors and calipers are not included in this kit but Miller assures us that “Baer brake kits will fit this full floater conversion kit and are available for purchase.”

We agree with SEMA’s choice for awarding this product the highly coveted Best Engineered New Product award.