Converting stock 68 K10 drum to Disk brake

[530FF]

Hi guys ,
Recently picked up a 68 Chevy k10 with stock drum brake and no boost . Would like to convert to front disk brakes with boost on this Dana 44 closed nuckle 6lug front differential. I would like to go with the later OEM parts to do the mod and seeking advice on what year and model parts I should be looking for
Thanks for the help
Richard

[msgross]

I'm doing this mod as well... Here's what i've learned

1. Get a newer solid axle (Dana 44 1971-1979ish) (Corp 10 bolt 1979-1985ish). They both bolt right in and shar a lot of parts. The Corp 10 has similar outer parts (hub, brakes etc) but the inner axle shafts are slightly different, plus the brake caliper banjo bolt went to metric at some point. Just match the gears with your rear (3.73, 4.10 etc..).

2. Power steering, might as well get those parts as well. Box, pump, brackets etc.. You can use your current manual box but the drage link need changed. The frame on a 68 may or may not have the dimpled area behind the box, if it does then you are in luck. if not then you will need a bracket adapter to mount the new box. I think Captainfab sells one on here.

3. Brakes, boosted disc will work but you need the entire setup again. I recommend getting an upgrade kit from cpp or another vendor. proportioning valve and brake lines will need changed.

4. I haven't seen many options for disc on your current axle, it's possibly but parts aren't as easy as my options above. New calipers for a 1975 chevy cost like $20 each...

Find the nicest and most complete axle that you can, should only cost $150 or so. Take all power steering parts from the same donor if possible, don't forget that our alternator and exhaust are different when considering brackets. Good luck

Good luck, I am currentlt paused on my project so let us know how it works out.

[61K10]

danw210 did this conversion--do a search dana 44 closed knuckle disc brake or go to page 3? here

[msgross]

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=567022

[LONGHAIR]

I can't seem to find it right now, but there was more to danw210's post about this. It seems to me that he ended up having to do some machine work? Outer axle stubs, I think.
I also seem to remember that he said that he wouldn't do it again, but he was so deep into it before he realized some of the issues that he felt like he had to continue.

I would go with msgross on this one. Get a later model axle . It provides simple replacement parts, a better turning radius, and eliminates the seals and wipers of the closed knuckle unit.

[60sIron]

I've been told open knuckle 44's are 3" wider. Haven't held a tape on both to check myself. Doesn't seem like much but depending on your wheels and the "look" you're after it could be. The conversion on the closed knuckle 44 to discs looks easy. Just need to machine the outer axles. I had daily drivers with closed knuckle 44's. Never had any issues but bad brakes! Good luck, and keep us posted.