Disc Brakes

[ol Curt]

Sorry, I realize there are probably a hundred posts on disc brakes, but feel my question might be unique. Is there away to convert without going to drop spindles? I just want to do the front, but also don't want to lose my factory wheels. I'm guessing that I need a deeper wheel. Is that correct?

[Tx Firefighter]

Easy as pie.

You need some disc brake spindles. Either 71-87 spec stuff and change your ball joints and tie rod ends to match or just buy the proper stock height disc brake spindles from ECE for your year model. This way, no ball joint or tie rod changes needed.

Then, buy a pair of 6 lug disc brake rotors from any truck parts supplier.

New brake lines and master cylinder and prop valve and you're done.

Cheapest way is to get a 73-87 front suspension and bolt it onto your existing crossmember. Now, replace the 5 lug rotors with 6 lug rotors from ECE or someplace. That way you can use the stock 73-87 brake lines, hoses, and all.

[ol Curt]

Can I use my stock steel wheels?

[Tx Firefighter]

Yes or no. Some 6 lug wheels will clear the calipers, some will not. Seems there were slight variances in stock 6 lug wheels. It's hit or miss and there is no real way of knowing. I had a truck one time that the two original front wheels rubbed the calipers, but when I swapped the rear wheels forward, they did not rub. All I had to do is swap wheels front and back. I have no idea why my truck had two different wheels on it. They looked the same.

[62gmc910]

My two cents, i believe the difference in the wheels is 1/2 an inch of width, but the 15 inch 4x4 Wheels from 72 on, will fit over the calipers and look the same from the out side, if your truck has 16 inch stockers they should fit, you can also use the wider drums and backing plates from a 4x4 on the rear