Brake differences, 73-80, 81-87

[chevyrestoguy]

I checked the Search function, and didn't get the answers I was looking for, so I decided to post a question:

Heres the scenario- I got a great deal on a new pair of Bell-Tech 3" drop spindles that were thought to be for an 81-87, but I discovered that they were for a 73-80 (Bell Tech part # 3100) with the 1.25" rotors. I have an '83 with the 1.0" rotors. To convert to 1.25 rotors, I'm figuring that I'm going to need to get rotors, the proper 73-80 calipers and bearings. Anything else I'm missing?

The original 1.0" rotors were past their minimum thickness, so I was going to need to replace them anyway. The original calipers looked like they needed to be rebuilt, so no big deal there either. I might as well change out the brake hoses while I'm at it. I was planning to completely go though the brakes and also do a rear disc conversion, so this is a good excuse to put a better brake on the front. I was never too crazy about the thinner rotors anyway. Our trucks are heavy, and they need all the stopping power they can get.

[flamingbig10]

the parts you mentioned, but you also might need a larger brake booster, and master cylinder
http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/cc/full.aspx?Page=158

[JohnC]

I am doing the same thing, and from what I have been told the spindle will have to be changed as well, unless you are going with an aftermarket one anyway.