I just ordered a PST Polygraphite Super Front End kit for my '70 yesterday. I was hoping while I had the front end tore apart, that I could upgrade from my current manual drums to manual discs.

I already have disc spindles and dust shields(?) from a '69 Chevelle parts car that I have. I need rotors, calipers, pads and the bearing kit. I'm pretty much a novice to brakes and suspension, so bear with me. I want to do this on a budget and I hope that a bone stock-type conversion will give me the added stopping power that I need. I don't want any fancy crossdrilled, mega-inch rotors, etc. etc. Just pretty much what GM came out with back in 69-70.

How expensive will a brake setup be to put together?

Will I need any kind of a proportioning valve added in when I go from manual drums to manual discs?

I think I will need different brake lines. Is this true?

Will I need a different master cylinder?

I really don't like driving power steering cars, will I notice a big difference with the manual drum to manual disc swap? I hope I'm not leaving anything out and that this won't break my bank. The suspension kit doesn't leave me with much to work with budget-wise, but I'd like to do what I can. Any vague ideas on how much I can do this for?

Will the local parts stores carry all this stuff for a 69-70 or will I have to check into some pricey aftermarket kits? Thanks and I'm sure I'll have more questions as the answers come rolling in. smile.gif

You should be able to pick up those pieces at most autoparts stores (calipers, pads, rotors/bearings). You will need a different master cylinder for disc/drum (disc on front/ drum on rear), but you should also be able to get that locally too.

The rotors will probably be the higher cost item, but you could look for used ones and have them turned and this might save some money (but price everything first). I am not sure on this application, but you can often buy rebuilt "loaded" calipers pretty cheap (pre-loaded with pads).

I think you will need a proportioning valve (or comb valve) for a disc/drum car, or get an aftermarket proportioning valve (Summit, etc). You should be able to use the combo valve off the parts car (if its there)...

You also might need new hoses to the calipers...

I would estimate $100-$250 to complete this swap...

Tony, thanks for the positive advice. I'm going to start calling around tomorrow. Maybe I can check and see if a friend at the local GM parts counter can come up with some good prices as well.

I think I might be able to get this done if I can keep it in the price range that you "quoted". Anything more than that and I'll probably have to put that part of the project on hold.