66 GMC C30 Disc Brakes?

[Jimbo0076]

I've done the looking and I know most everything 3/4ton is same as a old 1/2 ton but what bout the one ton C30s? The truck has the factory booster and single pod m/c. I'd like to swap it out to disc brakes on the front and swap the old rearend to the little newer 14 bolt rear with higher gears. I wondered if the 73-87 parts would swap over with no problems or if I could possibly just put new 73-87 C30 balljoints,spindles,rotors and such and m/c also. Or if there is a kit that could be bought I'd look into that also but haven't found anything. Thanks for the help

[Captainfab]

Yes you can upgrade to front disc brakes with the '71-'87 C30 parts. What you need is basically the same as for the C10 and C20's, but just using C30 parts. I don't know of any 'kits' to do this. It would be cheaper to just source most of the parts locally anyway. There are a few things you will have to buy elsewhere, such as the power steering adapter and depending on what components you use, an adapter for the power brakes, either vacuum or hydroboost.

[padresag]

I bought an 87 3/4t to convert my 65 1t over. both had 7800gvw. everything will work fine. if one is going to work it as a one t and carry heavier loads then I would suggest going to the one ton stuff. I don't need to run duals on the back as I won't be carrying those loads. these old trucks have done their duty in their lifetime
ron

[Jimbo0076]

I wonder if it would be the same to just swap from the ball joints out to disc brake parts and hammer down that way? Only problem would be having the tie rod adjusting sleeve to change from the inner to the newer style outer.

[Captainfab]

Yes you can use C20 parts to convert to discs, if you just need single wheels. The balljoint hole in the LCA is the same for C20 and C30. When you switch to disc brakes, it is much easier to just switch the entire steering linkage as well. Then there is no need for swapping tierods around. You will just need to drill 2 holes to mount the later model idler arm. Another advantage is that when the time comes to replace parts, everything up front is the same vintage.

Originally Posted by Jimbo0076

I wonder if it would be the same to just swap from the ball joints out to disc brake parts and hammer down that way? Only problem would be having the tie rod adjusting sleeve to change from the inner to the newer style outer.