Wilwood AERO4 Big Rear Brake Kit 140-11119-DR | Ultimate Product Guide

The Wilwood 140-11119-DR AERO4 Big Rear Brake Kit is a high-performance, complete solution designed to deliver exceptional stopping power and modern braking technology to the rear of your classic muscle car, street rod, or restomod. This kit is engineered around Wilwood’s renowned forged AERO4 calipers, which are not only incredibly strong and lightweight but also feature integrated parking brake functionality – a critical feature for street-driven vehicles.

The centerpiece of the system is a massive 12.19-inch directional vented rotor paired with a four-piston caliper, providing a significant increase in brake torque and heat capacity over stock drum brakes or smaller disc setups. Designed as a complete bolt-on package, this kit includes everything needed for a conversion, making it the ultimate choice for enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance without compromising on convenience or safety.

Detailed Technical Specifications

Key Features & Benefits

• Integrated Parking Brake: The mechanical parking brake is built into the caliper, meeting legal requirements for street use and providing security on inclines.

• Forged AERO4 Calipers: Forged construction offers superior strength and rigidity compared to cast calipers, reducing flex and improving pedal feel.

• Large Vented Rotors: 12.19″ rotors provide massive thermal capacity to resist fade during repeated hard stops and improve overall braking efficiency.

• Complete Bolt-On Kit: Includes every component needed for installation: calipers, rotors, mounting brackets, hardware, brake lines, and brake pads.

• Lightweight Design: Aluminum rotor hats and forged calipers reduce unsprung weight, improving suspension response and handling.

• High-Performance Pads: Includes Wilwood’s BP-10 compound pads, offering excellent bite and modulation for street and aggressive driving.

Wilwood Big Brake Kit vs. Stock Drum Brakes: Comparison Table

This table highlights the transformative upgrade this kit provides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is this a direct bolt-on for my vehicle?
A: The part number 140-11119-DR is designed for specific applications (e.g., certain years of Chevrolet Nova, Camaro, etc.). You must confirm compatibility with your specific year, make, and model. It will typically bolt on to the stock rear axle housing or spindle without modification.

Q2: Does this kit include a parking brake?
A: Yes, this is a key feature. The Wilwood AERO4 calipers include an integrated, mechanically-actuated parking brake system that is fully functional for street use.

Q3: What is the advantage of forged calipers?
A: Forged calipers are machined from a solid block of aluminum, making them significantly stronger and more rigid than cast calipers. This reduces flex under high pedal pressure, leading to a firmer pedal feel and more consistent performance.

Q4: Will these clear my stock wheels?
A: Large brake kits often require larger-diameter wheels. This kit with 12.19″ rotors will typically require 17-inch or larger wheels for proper clearance. Always check Wilwood’s wheel clearance template for this specific kit before purchasing.

Q5: What brake pads are included?
A: This kit comes with Wilwood’s BP-10 compound pads. They are an excellent street performance pad with good cold bite, low dust, and low noise, perfect for aggressive street driving and occasional track use.

Q6: Do I need to change my master cylinder or proportioning valve?
A: When converting from drum to disc brakes in the rear, it is highly recommended to also upgrade your master cylinder and install an adjustable proportioning valve. Disc brakes require higher fluid volume and different hydraulic pressure than drums. Wilwood offers matching master cylinders and valves for a complete system upgrade.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Complete Kit: Includes everything for a full conversion—no guesswork or sourcing additional parts.

• Integrated Parking Brake: Solves the biggest challenge of rear disc brake conversions for street cars.

• Superior Performance: Massive increase in stopping power, fade resistance, and pedal modulation.

• High-Quality Components: Features forged calipers, billet aluminum hats, and slotted rotors.

• Reduced Unsprung Weight: Improves handling and suspension response.

• Show-Stopping Looks: Adds a serious performance aesthetic to your vehicle.

Cons:

• High Cost: A significant investment compared to rebuilding stock drums.

• Wheel Size Requirement: Will likely require upgrading to 17-inch or larger wheels.

• Potential for Additional Upgrades: May necessitate a master cylinder and proportioning valve upgrade for optimal function.

• Professional Installation Recommended: Proper installation and bleeding are critical for safety and performance.

Conclusion & Best Applications

The Wilwood 140-11119-DR AERO4 Big Rear Brake Kit is a premium, no-compromise solution for anyone serious about upgrading their vehicle’s braking performance. It seamlessly blends race-derived technology with essential street features like a parking brake.

You should choose this kit if:

• You are converting from drum to disc brakes on your classic car.

• You need a complete, bolt-on package with a functional parking brake.

• You demand maximum stopping power for street, autocross, or track day use.

• You have 17-inch or larger wheels to clear the massive rotors and calipers.

• You want the best possible pedal feel and modulation from a forged caliper.

For a top-tier braking upgrade that enhances safety, performance, and appearance, the Wilwood AERO4 Big Brake Kit is an outstanding investment.

Disclaimer: Brake systems are critical safety components. Professional installation is highly recommended. Ensure the kit is compatible with your specific vehicle year, make, and model. Verify wheel clearance before purchase. A master cylinder upgrade and adjustable proportioning valve are strongly recommended when converting from drum to disc brakes. Always test the braking system at low speed in a safe area after installation.