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1968 Another disc brake question - so I don't hijack the other thread

bassman2

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 13, 2009
Messages
120
Location
Camas WA
I've got non power drum brakes and am looking at my options for front disc brakes.

I found this deal on craigs list -

Used original complete pair of 1968/1969 mustang & cougar front disc brake setup. Includes both spindlers, calipers, rotors, shields, master cylinder/power booster & proportioning valve. From a 69, so it bolts right on all 67-70 models. $275


My question is - What are the positives/negatives to going with the above solution VS. an SSBC or similar new kit? (Price not an issue - and I'm not going concourse)
 

TheBlkPearl

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 28, 2005
Messages
153
Location
Boise
Wilwood looks good

I just installed a front disc brake kit from Willwood – Dynalite Pro 1, very nice kit. I bought a disc/drum master cylinder from MP brakes, I used the original pushrod and rubber boot with a new spring clip. You should replace the master cylinder as the front disc brakes need a larger reservoir of fluid. I also bought a front flex line kit, proportioning valve and Dot 3 brake fluid from Jegs – make sure to get all of the old Dot 5 fluid out of the system. You may also need to make new brake lines that go from the master cylinder to the block – the new disc/drum master cylinder had different thread sizes that the old drum/drum master cylinder – just make sure it all fits. I was lucky to have a brother that had brake experience and tools for doing things like wire locking the bolts. Good luck and happy stopping.
 

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Highlander

Member
Joined
Apr 15, 2007
Messages
18
Location
Monroe, Washington
Although I'm no expert..... by installing the factory set-up, you'll be able to run the original 14" rims. One thing I noticed this set-up appears to be missing, is the Power Brake Pedal. These are readily available from many of the aftermarket vendors, as well as the Originals. There are some aftermarket boosters that do not require the pedal change, but you can also install the Disc Brakes in non-power form. Oh, and I believe the power brake pedal requires a different brake switch, as well. Now, if your running 17" rims...........
 
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bassman2

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 13, 2009
Messages
120
Location
Camas WA
Yeah... I pretty much know what I'm in for on this one... There seems to be too many tradeoffs.

I guess I want something that doesn't exist. A COMPLETE kit for front disc brakes (converting from manual to Power) that allows you to use 14" wheels.

Please someone tell me this exists somewhere.
 

Ruppstang

Well-known member
Joined
May 22, 2009
Messages
3,032
Why can't you run larger rim on the factory set up? I have seen many cars with aftermarket rim that did not change the brakes. A complete set up can be put together with a little work on ebay.
 

hookedtrout

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 28, 2003
Messages
1,929
Location
Idaho
The SSBC system I just had installed allows for the 14" factory wheels. I didn't go power so I'm not sure what the difference would make but the disc's are sized to allow factory wheels.
 
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bassman2

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 13, 2009
Messages
120
Location
Camas WA
Wow thanks guys!

I've looked into the ssbc product. I'm looking at the MPbrakes stuff now. I'm calling to confirm I can use my original spindles.

Might as well ask about their rear drum improvement kits too.

$$$$$ are adding up!!
 

nfrntau

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 15, 2004
Messages
1,020
Location
Rosharon, Texas
I used the MPbrakes drum to power disc set-up on my car. I've had no issues with it and found their customer support to be helpful. It came with the new brake pedal as well and pretty much bolted right up. As stated by others, you will need to do some brake line fitting but it really is not that difficult. My local Auto Zone had the flaring tool for loan for free. I'm sure there are other stores out there that loan tools to their customers also.

My 14" rims would not fit on my front after the conversion. To move my car around I had to install the front wheels backwards. I now run 17" wheels.
 
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bassman2

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 13, 2009
Messages
120
Location
Camas WA
I decided to go with the SSBC kit - A132-a I found it online for just over 1k.

Expensive, but it is a complete kit, pedal and all.

Now I'm about ready to pull the trigger on the expensive MPbrakes rear disk kit.

I tore mine off yesterday and they are terrible. Big grooves in the drum and the rear plate is nasty looking.

$$$$
 

nfrntau

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 15, 2004
Messages
1,020
Location
Rosharon, Texas
Glad you found a kit that would work for you. My wheels were just stock steel wheels, not the deluxe kind.
Just curious why you didn't want to go with SSBC rear kit so that all four would match? Calipers, disks, mounting hardware, etc.
I also purchased grade 8 bolts from the local hardware store to upgrade the bolts that came with the kit.
 
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