Brake Parts for Jeep CJ5
Wheel Cylinders, Brake Drums, Parking Brake & Hoses for Reliable Stopping Power (1972–1983).
Why the Braking System in the Jeep CJ5 72-83 Wears Out After Decades.
The Jeep CJ5 built between 1972 and 1983 marks a technical turning point in braking: early models stop entirely on drum brakes measuring 10 or 11 inches, while later years received front disc brakes with a caliper and an optional power booster – a noticeable safety gain. After decades on the road, both systems show typical wear: wheel cylinders lose their seal as pistons corrode and rubber cups turn porous, the master cylinder develops a spongy pedal as its seals wear out, and drums as well as rotors wear down through friction, rust, and heat. Brake hoses, pedal pads, and the booster diaphragm harden and crack over time. Parking brake cables stretch, brake adjusters seize up, and brake light switches fail from corrosion. Anyone restoring a CJ5 or driving it off-road should inspect the entire braking system regularly and thoroughly – safety comes first.
- Wheel Cylinders Front & Rear: The front left wheel cylinder and the rear wheel cylinder pair provide the necessary clamping force in 10- or 11-inch drum brakes.
- Master Cylinder & Power Brake Booster: The master cylinder builds up hydraulic pressure, while the power brake booster noticeably reduces the pedal effort required.
- Brake Drums & Shoes: The brake drums and matching brake shoes ensure reliable stopping power in the classic drum brake system.
- Rotors & Calipers: The brake rotor and the complete brake caliper with pads form the core of the later front disc brake setup.
- Parking Brake: The front parking brake cable and the rear parking brake cable keep the handbrake working reliably.
- Brake Hoses & Hardware: The front brake hose and the stainless steel brake hose kit ensure secure hydraulic pressure, rounded out by brake light switches, pressure regulators, brake adjusters, and pedal pads.
American Brand Expertise for the Complete Braking System.
Wheel cylinders, brake drums, and master cylinders come mainly from Raybestos, complemented by brake hoses, parking brake cables, and brake adjusters from Dorman. Calipers, brake pads, and numerous small parts are supplied by Crown Automotive, while reinforced stainless steel brake hoses come from RT Off-Road – both brands with American roots. Budget-friendly brake shoes and linings come from European manufacturer Ridex, parking brake levers and splash shields are supplied by Omix, pedal pads come from Fairchild.
Your Partner for the Jeep CJ5 72-83 Braking System.
Whether you need a single wear part, a complete repair kit, or the conversion from rear-drum to front-disc brakes, we're happy to advise you on torque specs, the correct installation order, the choice between original and aftermarket parts, and the brake bleeding required afterward, including compatibility questions for the Cherokee, Wrangler YJ, and Grand Cherokee. Most items ship from stock and reach you at short notice.