I’m looking to convert my 72 (non-SS) Chevelle from 4 wheel non-power drum bakes to front wheel power disc. Actually I would really like 4 wheel disc, but I’m working with a WRB (Wife Restricted Budget). I’m currently looking at the following kit through Ground Up: http://www.ss396.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=chevellecamino&Product_Code=FM-1790&Category_Code=BRAKESDISCCONVERSION

Here is what I know about it. They claim that it is as close to SS stock as you can get. It has 10.5” discs, with single piston calipers; I also get the choice of a 9” or 11” power booster.

My master cylinder just recently bit the dust, so anything will be better the e-brake I’m currently running on. But, how much better will this kit work then my drums (assuming they were working correctly)? Would it be better to go with the 9” or 11” power booster? I would think the 11” would have more stopping power. Am I just tossing money down the drain unless I upgrade to a hi-performance brake kit? Can I even fit bigger then 10.5” discs with a 15” wheel? If I go with this kit could I later upgrade to back disc brakes with out getting a new booster?

I occasionally get going pretty fast, but what I’m really worried about are those jerks on the highway that see you have a nice car and decide to slam on the brakes right in front of you. I just don’t want to end up in someone’s back seat. This has ALMOST happened more then once.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options that are out there. Do you think this would be a good kit for me? Is there something better out there for similar or less cost?

Any advice or incite would be great!
Thanks.

Actually I would really like 4 wheel disc, but I’m working with a WRB (Wife Restricted Budget). I’m currently looking at the following kit through Ground Up: http://www.ss396.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=chevellecamino&Product_Code=FM-1790&Category_Code=BRAKESDISCCONVERSION For only a few bucks more you could have those 4-wheel discs :thumbsup: http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?t=115940

Thanks for the info!!! It looks like there is about a $157 difference between your custom front disc kit and the one from Ground Up. I'm not sure yet, but I think I still might go for the ground up kit just because I'm fairly inexperienced and would like to get all the parts from one place as "kit". Plus Ground Up is only 20mins down the road, so I don’t need to pay shipping.

After I tackle the fronts, I might feel confident enough to do the backs using your custom kit. If I do go for the Ground Up kit, will I need a different master cylinder or booster when I later add the back brakes?

Is there any disadvantage to getting the 11” booster?

Unless you have a Big block and/or tall valve-covers, an 11" booster will be good. Smaller boosters require more vacuum, but are sometimes required to clear the valvecovers.

The biggest advantage to a kit is having a "help-line" to call when stuff doesn't work, but with Team Chevelle here, you don't need that.
Advantage #2 is that you place one order, and recieve everything in one box all at the same time. If you're willing to spend some time ordering the stuff from NAPA (part #s already listed) and go pick it up when they get the parts in, then you can save some money.

Doing fronts first, then rears will cost you more money. You will need to replace the master cylinder, and proportioning valve a second time. IMHO, it's easier to do it all at once and buy the right parts the first time.

*note* That is not "my kit", just the combination that worked well for me. I'm not selling anything :)