Disc brakes are an ideal upgrade over drum brakes, as they offer increased stopping power and resistance to fade. Furthermore, disc brakes work well in wet weather and tend to be resistant to corrosion.
If your truck is an old Chevrolet (73-87 model) pickup, converting to rear disc brakes with a conversion kit is simple. These kits come complete with rotors, loaded calipers, brackets for the calipers, rubber brake hose and mounting hardware are easy to install and come complete.
Brackets
To make the 73-87 Chevy truck rear disc brake conversion successful, you will need the appropriate brackets. We suggest using 3/8″ plate steel caliper mounting brackets which only weigh 10lbs each.
This kit provides the highest quality brackets that will withstand years of daily driving abuse from your truck’s 14 bolt chassis cab, Dual Rear Wheel (SRW) axles found on Chevrolet and GMC trucks from 1973 to 2000. At SSBC you’ll get unbeatable prices on these parts, making this upgrade one of the best investments you can make for your ’73-’87 Chevy C10 or GMC C15 trucks! Don’t forget to add on our patented magnetic caliper bolts with oil reservoirs too for even better performance!
Calipers
Installing a rear disc brake conversion kit from Streetrod Manufacturing requires both calipers and rotors. They offer complete packages that include the rotors, loaded calipers, brake hoses, and mounting brackets for your convenience.
These calipers work with standard or cross-drilled/slotted rotors for improved stopping power, cooler braking temperatures and longer rotor life. These calipers can be bolted onto your 73-87 Chevy truck or SUV for up to 30% more braking power than stock drums!
One major benefit to disc brake systems is that they are self-adjusting. Unfortunately, Seville/Cadillac ElDorado calipers don’t utilize this feature since they rely on a parking brake that must be adjusted every time you park the truck. This could cause the calipers to wear out prematurely and become ineffective.
👀Look at this: 73-87 Chevy Truck Rear Disc Brake Conversion 6 Lug
Brake Lines
Your brake line system is the foundation of your 73-87 Chevy truck rear disc brake conversion. Make sure you select a high-quality line kit compatible with your vehicle for optimal performance and longevity.
The finest brake line kits are manufactured from original factory lines, meaning they’re preformed and CNC manufactured for precision. They include correct fittings and flares as well as protective wrap when equipped.
When selecting a brake line kit for your truck, it is important to consider the power brakes, drum/disc application and bolt pattern. Classic Performance Products offers an extensive selection of disc brake kits tailored to fit each truck model – making your braking system stronger than ever before.
Once you’ve selected the ideal brake line kit for your vehicle, it’s time to install. Begin by taking out the brake drums.
Brake Booster
The brake booster is the backbone of your vehicle’s braking system. It increases pedal force by combining engine vacuum and pressure, providing increased grip.
The unit is a simple metal chamber with a diaphragm and shaft in the middle. Vacuum fills half of this chamber, while atmospheric pressure enters via a valve on one side.
By pressing down on the brake pedal, a shaft moves forward to open this valve and allow fresh air in. The pressure difference pushes the diaphragm even farther apart.
Once the driver releases the brake pedal, a spring will automatically return the valve to its starting position and push the master cylinder piston further back.
Signs that your booster may be failing include increased braking distance, fluid leaks around the brake booster/master cylinder assembly and a hissing sound from its diaphragm or vacuum line. If you see or hear any of these symptoms, be sure to inspect your booster before attempting DIY repair.