brake conversion
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 98
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From: Rushville, New York
brake conversion
Ok before I get jumped on, I did a search and was lead to 350 pages. Nothing specific as to my question. When I start my rebuild I figure that is the time to do any type of a brake conversion if it is worth it. I have NEVER done this before so what is the basics in what needs to be matched up, does the master cylinder need to be changed, do the axles need changeing. And is it really worth it. I have a 77 F150 4x4 Shortbox. It's a Auto with a C6. And it has a 400 doing the work. The 400 will be built up to some where between 350 to 400 hp and 400 lbs of torque. It won't be pulling anything more than 4000 lb max, with electric brakes, and a 17 ft. boat that total weighs in at around 1200 lbs and no electric brakes. And as far as worth it, what is a ball park figure to do it. Thanks for any help, like I said it a first and I would rate myself as " know enough to get in trouble" at best. Thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 9,111
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From: Lexington Mo
Electric brakes
Are you doing this to have better braking for the boat trailor?
If so............ Put electric brakes on the trailor. Would have to be less work and money than changing everything on the truck.
Bob
If so............ Put electric brakes on the trailor. Would have to be less work and money than changing everything on the truck.
Bob
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 98
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From: Rushville, New York
The boat when I have towed it with other vehicles like a 86 Ranger V6 and a 99 Explorer you would hardly know it was back there. I was just wondering if the stopping performance was that much better to warrent the expense. With or without towing anything!
New User
Joined: Dec 2006
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From: High Desert
Have a '79 4x4, if you have the same front axle, D44 hi-pinion w/discs, then I believe that the T-bird calipers and F-350 M/C and booster may be what you are looking for?
Use '75 era T-bird calipers with the metal puck, this will give you almost twice the piston area. These will fit the stock brackets and use stock pads.
There should be an article in the forum somewhere!?! There used to be a tech/mod section that had all kinds of cool "how-to" stuff. Been quite a while since I've been here so I'm not sure if it's even available anymore. If you can't find it and want more info, let me know and I'll get a parts list together for you. Besides the calipers, M/C & booster, you need a few "an" fittings, braided lines and a double flairing tool.
This did make a very noticeable difference in pedal travel and overall braking feel.
460 with 35's was my reason for the change over-as well as the pedal was always very soft!
Use '75 era T-bird calipers with the metal puck, this will give you almost twice the piston area. These will fit the stock brackets and use stock pads.
There should be an article in the forum somewhere!?! There used to be a tech/mod section that had all kinds of cool "how-to" stuff. Been quite a while since I've been here so I'm not sure if it's even available anymore. If you can't find it and want more info, let me know and I'll get a parts list together for you. Besides the calipers, M/C & booster, you need a few "an" fittings, braided lines and a double flairing tool.
This did make a very noticeable difference in pedal travel and overall braking feel.
460 with 35's was my reason for the change over-as well as the pedal was always very soft!
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2006
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I have been very pleased with a rear disc conversion(s) for my truck(s). I decided on the conversion to shed a little weight, and gain some better braking, especially after crossing a stream, or mud hole. Conversion kits are getting pretty reasonable, and are easy to install. Definately should consider this if you are gonna make any brake mods.
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 98
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From: Rushville, New York
Thanks 75f350 for answering my question. I did just recently see a convertion kit in a Circle Dirt Track Mag that showed a kit for about $300.00. Now I'll do my research Thanks to ALL
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
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From: Atlanta GA
I have done the F-100/F-150 to F-350 booster/master swap before and it is always worth it, especially with bigger then stock tires. You might have to bend the brake lines a small bit to match up, but, other then that it is a bolt on. Usual cost is about $120 from Advance Auto Parts.
