Disc conversion
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New User
Joined: Apr 2014
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Disc conversion
Hey everyone. I am super new to the ford truck scene and this forum. But i am very excited to be part of the community. So i just bought my first classic truck, its a 1976 F 150 xtl i think. the reason I'm not a hundred percent sure is because of my front axel. The guy i bought it off of said it had a dana 44 up front, but it has drum brakes. i thought the mid to later 70's had disc brakes. anyways here is my question. what parts would i require to convert this to disc brakes? Im not looking for super performance as the truck is just going to be a daily driver and occasion trail or two.
Thanks for all the help in advance
also how do i insert a photo ?
Thanks for all the help in advance
also how do i insert a photo ?
Fleet Owner
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 20,678
Likes: 83
From: NorCal
IIRC, 76 and newer half-tons had disc D44s.
Based on my research, I think getting everything from the knuckles out (spindles, brackets, calipers, rotors, etc.) can be swapped to a drum D44. I haven't done this mind you but the PNs from the axles and inwards are the same.
More research is needed but here is a primer on the subject: B.C. Broncos - 66-77 Early Bronco Front Brakes
Drum D44s also had thinner shanked tie rods and drag links because there is more "meat" on the steering arms. The later steering linkages also need to be used unless a a tapered adapter is used in order to accommodate the drum-spec tie rods.
.. Inserting a photo - set up and account at photobucket, tinypic, or other online photo host and upload your pics. Then grab the URL tagged with "img" and paste it into your thread. I don't think there is a limit on the number of images that can be hot-linked into a post. I've seen some really loooong posts with a kazillion images.
Based on my research, I think getting everything from the knuckles out (spindles, brackets, calipers, rotors, etc.) can be swapped to a drum D44. I haven't done this mind you but the PNs from the axles and inwards are the same.
More research is needed but here is a primer on the subject: B.C. Broncos - 66-77 Early Bronco Front Brakes
Drum D44s also had thinner shanked tie rods and drag links because there is more "meat" on the steering arms. The later steering linkages also need to be used unless a a tapered adapter is used in order to accommodate the drum-spec tie rods.
.. Inserting a photo - set up and account at photobucket, tinypic, or other online photo host and upload your pics. Then grab the URL tagged with "img" and paste it into your thread. I don't think there is a limit on the number of images that can be hot-linked into a post. I've seen some really loooong posts with a kazillion images.
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 787
From: Simi Valley, CA
1959/75 F100/250 4WD's and 1966/75 Bronco's were only available with front/rear drum brakes.
1976 was the first year that these 4WD's were available with front disc brakes and they were standard equipment.
1976 was the first year that these 4WD's were available with front disc brakes and they were standard equipment.
Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 4,656
Likes: 4
From: Northern and Southern Cal
61steven, you are correct, I agree with the concept of swapping the front end because the later parts are better, but the op needs to exercise caution and sincerely evaluate his abilities.
The swap concept is easy, but the reality is a bit tougher, not to mention expensive.
Some guys may be better served to source the later parts or buy a brake upgrade kit.
Depends on skill, time and funds.
The swap concept is easy, but the reality is a bit tougher, not to mention expensive.
Some guys may be better served to source the later parts or buy a brake upgrade kit.
Depends on skill, time and funds.
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