I just purchased a 1964 Chevy C 10 stepside and want to convert, upgrade, replace etc both the breaks and steering. This is my first time trying to modify or restore anything. I have a mechanic who will do the work but i don't even have a clue as to what might be best, easiest and less costly route to go. I plan to have the truck for some time so i want to do it right. Thanks.....
This is the most comprehensive link I've found regarding how to upgrade to disc brakes for the 60-66 series trucks. Many find it easiest to swap in a 73-87 crossmember with all the later parts including the power steering. Even for a novice the swap is relatively simple. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/showthread.php?t=367260 The power steering will require an adapter plate. These are available from Captainfab listed in the above link, or REZ Engineering (the originator) and other classic truck suppliers. Here are a couple of articles about the conversion. http://persh.org/pickup/steering.htm http://www.customclassictrucks.com/techarticles/60_66_chevy_gmc_power_steering_retrofit/index.html
i agree with markeb01's post above on the REZ steering, many of us here have done it and are very happy. as far as brake conversion visit www.earlyclassic.com, many of us have used there disc brake conversion kits, there more complete then any other on the market, including pre bent brake lines. you will need to convert spindles has well, they have them in there kits. if you want to lower your truck at all this is the time to think of it because youll want to get different spindles per how much drop your looking to get.
Just my 2 cents but what is the mechanic for? If you don't work on it yourself then every time you have a problem you will be hauling it off to be worked on. Trust me when I say get a set of tools and the 1963 Chevy truck manual with the 64 supplement and do it yourself. That is the cheap way to go. If you want power steering get the mounting bracket from REZ, Classic Parts or CPP. Go to the local parts store and purchase a power steering pump and power steering box for a 73-87 chevy 1/2 ton truck and eat the core charge. I used braided steel for my power steering lines and the rest is bolt on. Alan Grove makes a low cost power steering pump bracket. For power disc brakes order a kit from CPP. When you do all this work it is the right time to replace shocks, springs, ball joints, a-arm bushings, idler arm, pitman arm tie-rods and sleeves. Basically rebuild the entire front end.
THIS is the best route for you to take as you have little experience. Before you embark on your journey, Do the MATH Homework. The disk brake kit makes the most sense as you will be also paying for labor. The kit is the most complete and you won't be paying for a wrench to track down parts. Budget - Budget - Budget Price out the components and their `logical' order of assembly. As an example: To install a disk brake kit budget for a front end rebuild. Ball joints, outer tie-rod ends, idler arm, control arm bushings , springs ( drop springs or stock ride height) and shocks. THEN you will be ready for the disk brake kit. The power steering can be done seperately or at the same time. Your BUDGET will determine what makes the most sence for you. Use the Internet and Google your questions about How-To and your options. But start the journey with a known budget and you will stand a better chance of being successful. Dval
Listen to them, they have been there! Listen to Val; he's right. If you don't take your time and plan your build according to your budget, you will nickle and dime yourself to several hundred or thousands more $ than you planned on spending; especially if you are paying for labor too.
