How much is a reasonable cost to replace drum brakes w/ disc brakes on 1957 GMC truck

[Tyler & Christian]

I'm looking at a 1957 GMC truck. It is mostly restored (body and interior) and has original motor and transmission, original front end/steering and original brake system (drum). I am not a car guy but my 14 yr old son and I want to get an old truck an fix it up. I drove this particular truck the other day and the brakes are down right scary. How much and how hard is it to convert to disc brakes? Is there welding involved or just wrench turning?

Thanks,
Tyler

[mr48chev]

With the right kits it's all wrench turning. A lot of guys on here have used CPP
http://www.classicperform.com/4754chevtrk.html#4

Another outfit that sells kits is. http://ecihotrodbrakes.com/early_che...nversions.html I don't know much about them though. I found the site the other day when they showed their new alt, ps, ac bracket for 292 Six cylinders on Hotrod Hotline.

[OrrieG]

I am not arguing against disc brakes but if drums are in good shape and adjusted correctly they will do just fine 90% of the time. I am guessing the adjusters are frozen and/or shoes shot.

Defensive driving is the key, especially when junior starts driving. With modern systems just about everyone tailgates. My 64 DD still has the original drum/drum set up. I drove my 59 for 11 years with a heavy camper. The only problems I ever had were on long mountain down grades and after I converted to 4wd the same grades heated up the discs too.

[Tyler & Christian]

Originally Posted by mr48chev

With the right kits it's all wrench turning. A lot of guys on here have used CPP
http://www.classicperform.com/4754chevtrk.html#4

Another outfit that sells kits is. http://ecihotrodbrakes.com/early_che...nversions.html I don't know much about them though. I found the site the other day when they showed their new alt, ps, ac bracket for 292 Six cylinders on Hotrod Hotline.

OK, thanks for that info...So this kit for example: http://www.classicperform.com/Store/...s/4959WBK6.htm
Is this for only one wheel or does it cover everything?

And by the way, not actually owning the truck yet so I cannot go out and look, will I need disc brakes for all 4 wheels, or only rear? Remember, I am a newbie. I understand the big concepts, but don't have all the details in my head. : )

[Root2812]

Originally Posted by Tyler & Christian

will I need disc brakes for all 4 wheels, or only rear?

All 4 is good but doing just the front would be fine too. The front brakes do the majority of the work... I think its about 70% of the braking force or something close. Infact alot of your newer trucks are disk front and drum rear.

[tmoble]

front disc/rear drum is good. the rear drum brakes need to be in good shape. no leaky wheel cylinders, no leaky axle seals getting the brakes oily, etc.

These kits are going to require some skills, like bending and flaring brake lines. if you're going to retain the front axle you'll probably end up replacing the king pins and bushings. The stock tie rod often needs work or replaced.

It's good to carefully survey the current condition of stuff and the options available for upgrade. PM me and I'll help you find a competent mechanic in or near Tucson who can help you, somebody who knows old trucks. Don't take it in to a chain store shop, they'll look at it like it's from Mars.