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Short Spindle Front Disk Brakes

for Chevelles


Authored by Wes Vann, last revised on April 5, 1997

PLEASE NOTE; Any time working on a raised car, it is mandatory that jack stands are used. If removing the front suspension, a spring compressor is required in order for the work to be done safely.

All attempts have been made to provide correct information here, however, I've not personally done this swap. Any input is welcome!


This page covers the conversion of 64 through 72 Chevelles to front disk brakes using the short spindles manufactured up to and including 72.

There was a limited number of factory disk brake set-ups available around 67/68 that used a dual piston caliper. It's my understanding that they are difficult to obtain and that parts are hard to find.

In 69 the single piston set-up was introduced and was manufactured through 72. The spindle, steering knuckle, dust shield, rotor, and caliper can be obtained from any GM A body car. It would also be possible to obtain the parts from a Nova (X body) or Camaro, however, the steering knuckle is different due to being "rear steer" and would have to be replaced.

The stock upper and lower ball joints will work, as will the tie rod ends.

Assembly of all of the parts is just like a stock car. If in doubt, just get almost any manual.

I have to assume that new flexible brake lines will be required to hook up to the new calipers and I'd recommend buying new ones or have stainless braided lines made. Once the car is back on it's wheels, make sure that the line doesn't bind or rub on anything when the wheels are turned full lock to lock.

On my car, I used a dual power master cylinder set-up. You can read about it at tecref2.

You should at the least run a master cylinder that is the same bore as the car that you got the brakes off of.

When looking for a master cylinder, there is another item that should be noted. Some of the pistons within the cylinder have a deeper seat for the push-rod. I believe that there is only two different depths and it's easy to spot which is which. When I did my car, I ended up with the cylinder housing that I wanted and had to swap the piston assembly to the correct one to match the power booster.

ADDED NOTES AND COMMENTS;

1. Even if the original rims were 15", they may not clear the disk brake caliper. There was a change in the rim profile made when disk brakes came more common. The older 15" drum brakes may not fit, and 14" rims would be in question.

 

tecref3.html