1949 Chevy Disc Brake Upgrade

1949 3600

I am ditching the stock front axle for a 1/2 ton version over the winter, and I would really like to increase the stopping power and safety of this truck by changing over to disc brakes.

Not sure if I will stay 6 bolt, or convert to 5. I have a complete 1/2 ton front axle hub to hub and wheels for it, so staying with 6 would be ideal.

What is the best bang for the buck?

Buy a complete kit? Buy brackets and buy all stuff from FLAPS? Junk Yard??

 

I'm right there with you, coach

I've been meaning to post the same question, but was waiting until I was closer. Now I finally am.
I believe Bill Hanlon had some kind of set up on his rig that used various parts to get the disc brake system on his truck. If I remember correctly, he even used a mc that bolted up (from something) as well...

Help, Bill?

 

Speedway has a complete set up in their catalog.

 

I bought a kit from Heavy Chevy (don't think they are in business any longer for the front axle. It consisted of a bracket for each side (made by Buffalo Enterprises - a 1 man shop in the Northwest) and some grade 8 hardware to attach the brackets to the original steering knuckles. The kit included a list of parts that I purchased at FLAPS including:
late 70's GM 4x4 calipers
pads for the calipers
bolts to hold the calipers to the brackets
brake hoses
longer lug bolts

I also bought a dual master cylinder kit (mounting bracket, master cylinder and push rod) from Heavy Chevy. Years later when I needed to replace the master cylinder I found markings on the MC that linked back to a '71 Mustang part. My MC did NOT use a booster and I never felt like I needed one.

 

Google 'heavy chevy' and they're first on the list.

 

Disc brakes conversion.

You could wright a pm to SinclairChevy https://talk.classicparts.com/showthread.php?t=16144. He has just made the swap and there are pictures shown from the disc brakes conversion to the threads he has about this subject.

Martinius.

 

Thanks Bill! (and Happy Thanksgiving)
I'll have to check out Heavy Chevy and see what they have. You didn't have problems with steering stops and things could be purchased over the counter. That I like!
I have no plans on using a power booster, so I'll check on the mc you mention.

Thanks again! Now go buy an old AD and get to work.

 

Thanks, Russ!

Have you (or someone you know) used this on an AD before? Any complaints?
Thanks! And Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you !

I wish you all a happy thanksgiving. What about a big gobling talking turkey like the one Obama presented Yesterday on the news. Healthy food it is and the taste is good.

Martinius.

 

I personally have not used it, nor know anyone who has.

 

Well, I checked out Heavy Chevy. They show a kit for 200+. It is pretty vague about what you get for the bucks, however. Speedway has something that looks just like our host has.
Guess I need to did a bit deeper into Heavy Chevy before I plunk down the cash. It's just nice to know I'm getting further down the road. (Yesterday was a *good* day!)

 

The speedway kit for $249 seems like the best bang for my buck, but I would have to find some car hubs.

http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Deluxe-Disc-Brake-Kit-1941-1959-Chevy-Half-Ton-Pickup,4622.html

Anybody know what year hubs fit?

 

Actually after reading the instructions I ould not even need hubs.

http://static.speedwaymotors.com/pdf/910-31916.pdf

 

This is a 5 lug kit.

 

I understand that.

For some reason I was confused and thinking the disk attached to the existing hub, but actually the new disc replaces the hub. Correct?

 

The 6 lug kit uses the stock hub. You remove the original brake drum and lug bolts from the hub and install longer lug bolts and the late 70s 4x4 1/2 ton rotor.

 

Looking at the directions you posted, it appears that the 5 lug setup you are looking at has the hub/rotor all in one. (This you'll have to purchase seperately, it seems...)

I spent quite a bit of time searching speedway, but it sure doesn't seem they believe in anything that is 6 lug~

 

From what I understand the hub/ rotor is included in the kit.

Kit Includes:
•11" brake rotor, 5 x 4-3/4"
•Brake pads
•GM Caliper slide bolts
•1969-77 calipers (7/16"-20 inlets)
•Brake brackets
•Rubber Brake Lines
•Hardware
•Seals
•Inner bearing cups
•Inner bearing cones
•Spacers
•Outer bearing cones
•Dust caps
•Instructions

Does anbody have any input on this kit?

I have not purchased rims yet, so bolt pattern to me does not really matter.

 

You know, when I read it with both eyes, that IS a complete kit. Cool beans!
My only hang up is I do want a 6 lug set, so my search continues...

 

I am about 90% sure this is the kit I am going to go with.