Author Topic: Drum to power disc brake conversion  (Read 3701 times)

Offline 440-6 Challenger

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Drum to power disc brake conversion
« on: September 05, 2012 - 10:44:30 PM »
Hi.....  I'm closing the purchase on a 1970 Challenger RT with a 440-6 (originally a 383 car). It's all original and to would like to keep it close to original  During a check out I discovered to brake system is shot and needs a complete rebuild. In fact the front drums must be replaced (expensive).  So I'm at a cross road.....  Rebuild or convert?  I'm sure many of you have been down this road. I'm looking for any opinions, recommendation and words of wisdom.

If there is a thread on this subject, please point me

Thx in advance

Robin




Offline Chryco Psycho

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Re: Drum to power disc brake conversion
« Reply #1 on: September 05, 2012 - 10:50:56 PM »
no brainer , toss the drums in the corner if someone wants a trailer queen & put on discs , use the FMJ splindle Volare Mirada 5th ave Caravelle etc & swap to the Cordoba 11.75" front disc brakes

Challenger - You`ll wish You Hadn`t

Offline 440-6 Challenger

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Re: Drum to power disc brake conversion
« Reply #2 on: September 06, 2012 - 08:50:42 PM »
What about all these conversion kits from Summit, Winwood, SSBC,In Line Tube, Stainless brakes and others.  Most don't mention a spindle replacement.

Offline Chryco Psycho

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Re: Drum to power disc brake conversion
« Reply #3 on: September 06, 2012 - 08:58:21 PM »
Probably more expensive , they use the drum spindle which saves some hassle  Bear is another option , Brad did a Viper conversion , 17 " wheels will allow bigger brakes as well . Also check out Scarebird , they make adapters & use common parts

Challenger - You`ll wish You Hadn`t

Offline brads70

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Re: Drum to power disc brake conversion
« Reply #4 on: September 06, 2012 - 09:50:15 PM »
If you neeed spindles and the "Doba" pin caliper brackets I have a pair for sale?
http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=84268.0
Brad
1970 Challenger 451stroker/4L60 auto OD
Barrie,Ontario,Canada
Proud to own one of the best cars ever made!!!!!

My restoration thread 
http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=59072.0
 My handling upgrade post
http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=73985.0

Offline 1970 RT Challenger 1970

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Re: Drum to power disc brake conversion
« Reply #5 on: September 08, 2012 - 11:58:40 PM »
 :popcorn:

Offline 440-6 Challenger

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Re: Drum to power disc brake conversion
« Reply #6 on: September 16, 2012 - 07:06:26 PM »
Looks like I may go with a conversion kit from Master Power Brake.  I keep running into unknowns like 15" wheel requirements and vacuum pressure limits on my 440.  Looks like I have to go with manual front disc conversion.

I still half way leaning towards simply a drum brake rebuild as an interim till i get a better handle on the right way to make the upgrade and what iwamt yo do.  I found stock 11" front drums for $100 ea.   I was really surprised this wasn't std stock upgrade process given the popularity of this car

http://www.mpbrakes.com/products/list.cfm?make=dodge&model=challenger&year=1970&product=93

Hey.....  But learning about the Challenger part of the fun of owning a classic muscle car.

Keep you posted on the evolution.

Ps. What's a stock 1970 Challenger 383 RT with a factory 440-6pack conversion worth?  Solid. No rust.