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Disc conversion
Posted: Sun Dec 12, 2010 2:34 pm
by jimmy_stikx
wrote:
>
What is the best vehicle to scavenge either 4 wheel disc or disc/ drum combo to replace the current setup on our trucks? I'm not to concerned with power boosted brakes, just ones that are easier to find parts for and match the lug pattern.
Re: Disc conversion
Posted: Sun Dec 12, 2010 3:41 pm
by Lifer
wrote:
>
You won't find a direct replacement anywhere. Ray Suiter (Ugly Truckling) makes conversion kits that will allow you to use GM disc components, but the front hubs have to be machined before you can install them. Ray has moved his operation to Thailand, but he has got a stateside machinist who can do the work to his specs. If you repower with anything more powerful than the stock motor, front discs are a must from a safety standpoint. Adding rear discs (Ray can help with that, too) will improve your braking even more with the added bonus of no adjustment issues and easy changing of the pads.
Others on the forum strongly recommend using a dual-chamber master cylinder so that a leak only results in the loss of brakes on 2 wheels instead of all 4, but the stock master cylinder will work.
Another possibility is adding a power brake booster to the system. Some members have done that to both the stock system and the disc setup. In either case, they report that stopping is much easier and stopping distance is shortened.
If I were a rich man, I'd go with the diesel swap, 4-wheel discs, and the power brake mod.

Re: Disc conversion
Posted: Sun Dec 12, 2010 7:01 pm
by jimmy_stikx
wrote:
>
Definitely going to re-engine, probably with a ford 4.9 inline. Thank you for the link, I might be able to do that on my own, don't have the money to outsource any work.
Re: Disc conversion
Posted: Sun Dec 19, 2010 8:44 am
by Juan
Juan wrote:
>
jimmy_stikx wrote:wrote:
> >
> Definitely going to re-engine, probably with a ford 4.9 inline. Thank you for the
> link, I might be able to do that on my own, don't have the money to outsource any
> work.
>
> It can definitely be done if you have the skills. I did my owns, for my two trucks.
> The only thing I've outsurced was the machine/weld job on the hubs and the laser cut
> on the plates.
> No biggie.
> Actually I've always thought the disc brake conversion kit was kind of expensive
> considering you have to buy the rotors/calipers/pads and reuse your hubs.
> I have no doubt about the quality of the set, it looks top notch.
Re: Disc conversion
Posted: Sun Dec 02, 2012 1:24 pm
by jimmy_stikx
Looking at it, looks like the mounting hardware could be fab'ed in the garage, given time.