65GS.com - Buick Gran Sport Enthusiasts!
Drivetrain => Differentials, Axles & Brakes => Topic started by: Weldar on July 13, 2011, 09:59:08 PM
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I'm assuming that most of the members have not converted to front disc brakes because there seems to be relatively few posts about it. I'm at the point (see Wyoming 65 GS Restoration thread) where I need to make some decisions in regards to brakes. Not convinced I need to do this but does seem like a good upgrade. Inline Tube seems to offer a good product. Really don't think the car will end up as a daily driver so I suppose disc brakes may be overkill. Looking for some thoughts from the forum.
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Dwaine,
If it's not going to be an everyday driver, the drums are adequate in my opinion.
I know there are some forum members who have converted to front disc.
Mark
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Have front disc brakes on my car. Like Mark said, unless its a frequently driven car its probably not worth the money to do the conversion. Yes the discs are better but not that much better. Spend your money on other things IMO.
Dan
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I agree with everyone else--keep the drums. If your car does not have PB on it, definitely add the PB booster on there. It makes a huge difference in the operation of the drum brakes.
Another reason for staying with drums is that most of the aftermarket disc conversion kits require going up to 15" wheels. I am not aware of any that will work with the factory 14" wheels.
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I prefer discs. The single-reservoir master cylinder isn't the safest component either.... one failure in the system, and it's bye-bye brakes.
I converted 3 of my 6 cars to discs. It's an easy swap from a 70-72 A body, or complete kits are in the $600 range.
Last 3 cars will stay drums to keep them original.
Front disc brakes, a fast-ratio steering box, and bigger swaybars are my favorite upgrades. Really transforms a 65-66 into a much more enjoyable car to drive.
The conversion from Scarebird supposedly works with 14" wheels. It uses custom caliper brackets with disks and calipers from newer GM models.
http://www.scarebird.com/index.php?id=13
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The front disc conversion on my post car came from The Parts Place and the stock 14" rally wheels fit on them.
They also sell a fast ratio steering box which I also recommend. Its a bolt in deal.
Dan
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Thanks to all for the feedback. Just what I was looking for. Can anyone share some pics of their setup?
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I drive my car every day that it is sunny. About 1500 miles since May. I have drums with a booster. Stops great.
Rob
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so what did you guys who made the swap do for brake lines? I have everything except the master and brake lines to convert my 65, i also have the bigger sportwagon rear setup for the back.
(http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b131/gransportsedan/65%20Gransport%20post%203%20speed/newwheelspassngr.jpg)
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Inlinetube.com complete setup, or plug off two extra outlets in your original distribution block on the frame and create new front lines to each wheel directly from your proportioning valve by your master cylinder. your rear line would use the original block as a connector. Your local parts store should have the plugs, if not let me know and I can get them and mail them to you.
The Inlinetube setup replaces your distribution block on the frame with a front and rear divided block, and provides lines from the master cylinder to the new distribution block. Your original front brake lines are used to each front wheel. They would of course be willing to sell you a master cylinder....... and they claim it looks the most original of all conversions.
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Here's the disc setup on my red '66 GS.
The original distribution block is still used for the two front brake lines.
The line for the front brakes runs from the master, thru the combo valve, thru the line-lock, and into the dist block.
The original inlet on top is plugged, and the new inlet is at the rear.
The rear brake line exits the new combo valve at the right (hidden behind the z-bar). I had to cut the old rear brake line and reflare the end.
I make my own brake lines..... NAPA sells a whole roll of line for about $25. Fittings were purchased from 'The Right Stuff'.