Disc brake 14 bolt rear end

[66gmcguy]

What's the consensus on the braking performance of FACTORY (not drum brake 14 bolts with disc brake conversion kits) 14 bolt disc brake rear ends in a squarebody? The axles came out of 99-2006 trucks. They have a shoe-in-hat style parking brake which is the main reason I want to use it over a disc brake conversion kit. Curious if anyone has done this swap and had any issues/regrets doing it?

Also, what master cylinder did you use for the swap?

[Shifty One]

[v30crewcab]

the drum brakes stop a little better, but they are much harder to maintain.

[THI]

I have seen that change many times for off-roading. Most do not change the master cylinder, but you do have to change the proportioning valve. My experience for on-road use, I would stick with the 13" drums if that is what you already have - as mentioned above they do stop better and shoes will last longer than a set of pads. I have a box with the e-brake parts from a 2003 2500 HD that locked up and I ended up removing them in order to use the truck (sold several years ago). The rear disc work great for clearing mud and other debris when off-roading that would mess up drum brakes - that is their real advantage.

[geunther]

Just to back up THI: I converted a 14 bolt to disk for a rock jeep. Due to the large tires, it made all the difference in stopping power. Like was said, proportioning valve change is important. I also took the hydra boost system (including master cylinder) off of the donor. My recommendation is if making the conversion, do all the components mentioned. Mismatched systems won't perform as well as they could otherwise.

They have been maintenance free for five years.