disc brake conversion for '65

[Flyingtiger]

Has anyone converted their 65 or 66 to dual master cyl, manual, disc front brakes? I'd like to know what is needed.IE: proportioning valves, line and wheel cyl. changes, problems matching bores and strokes of components, or experiences with aftermarket kits, etc.Thanks.

[Rick]

Wish I could help, mine was already done when I got the 65....

All you really need is some bailing wire, a couple of wood sticks and some duct tape.

[Ranman65GTO]

I've done it but I'm not sure I can recommend my method of conversion. I think if I was to do it again I would look for an all-in-one kit.

I did what is known as the tall spindle F-body conversion. It uses the front brakes/suspension off of a '70-81 Camaro/Firebird. This conversion was made popular by a company called H-O Performance, which I don't believe is still in business. The idea was to change the front end geometry to move the roll-center of the car inward and down, improving the handling. It requires changing the lower ball joints and during alignment, will necessitate moving the upper control arms inward about 1/2 to 3/4 inch for proper specs. This can cause problems with aftermarket exhaust systems, but there is the option of going with tubular upper A-arms which are specifically made for this swap (Hotchkis, Global West).

I am using a dual master cylinder (non-power) from a '70 Firebird. I've incorporated a Wilwood adjustable proportioning valve to attenuate the pressure to the rear drums. The brakes require a large amount of brake pedal effort, I have not yet done enough road testing to properly adjust the prop. valve.

I am also using H-O's ridiculously large sway bars front and rear, and I must say that the combo makes the car handle great. It absolutely does not lean in corners, but my BFG Radial T/A's are not up to the strain, plus I can starve my carbs in hard, tight corners. Also, it is difficult to keep my butt in the center of the seat!

Feel free to email me if you want more info.
Randy Holt

[Flyingtiger]

Thanks Rick and Randy. Got my duct tape in hand, now for the bailing wire!

[1PROGTO]

Nice looking setup Randy.

I have to really jog my memory but if I recall when building my '65 (this would have been around '93-'94) I converted the front to disc from a '74 Ventura or Firebird. I stuck with the stock single master with booster for that "stock" look that I wanted. I added a Wilwood proportioning valve also. My setup works great, the only issue I found was the disc setup moved mounting surface of the wheels 1/2" to 3/4" outward closer to inner fender. As my car sits pretty low this can be an issue to look out for. On tight turning radiuses with a passenger I have to be careful so not to rub.