How do you like them? I'm doing the drum to disc conversion this weekend on my 70 Malibu front brakes without the power booster and was wondering how significant of a change in braking capability is this? I do have a new Master cylinder for the conversion though. The reason I am not installing the power booster is because I do not have enough psi (12) and I don't want an electric pump. I figured I would hold off and install the booster at a later date once the motor gets refreshed and is producing more vaccum. I figure even with manual discs in the front it has to be better than drums any day! smile.gif

i have experience w/ manual disk brakes on three cars. they work far better than drums. just be sure to use a manual disk brake master cylinder. tom

I have manual discs on front (12").

The stop OK, but I want to change to power eventually. I have to worry about anyone else driving it that isn't used to driving manual brakes. Also, it is too difficult to modulate in emergency situations.

I'd vote to spend the extra money for power.

I wouldn't worry about it one bit, use the power booster. If you have 12" of idle vacuum I think your power discs will work just fine, you won't need a vacuum pump. I have 6" idle vacuum and my 72 power discs work just fine. The only thing i did was add a vacuum check valve from an 80 Z28, but I really didn't notice a huge difference adding that. I vote fo putting on the parts you have, and have a good time! smile.gif

chris

I have manual disk brakes and really like them! In fact, both my cars have them and I'll probably never go back to power!

There are some tricks you can use to make them feel better than stock like different MC, different calipers, better pads, etc. All will help to have easier feeling, better stopping brakes!

However, if you have 12" of vacuum, that SHOULD operate a factory booster ok. I have seen them work with as little as 10" of vacuum, but that's on a case-by-case basis! I have no idea how bulb can get his to work with only 6"! :eek:

If you want more info, please feel free to ask.

Bill C.

12" of vacuum is plenty. I've run my idle speed at <500 rpm and pulled around 9" of vacuum at that speed and the power brakes still worked fine. I think the booster check valve is the key to running them with lower vacuum readings.

The booster check valve can be found in almost any parts store in the "HELP!" section for two or three dollars.

Having said that, I've had several cars with manual disc brakes and I've always liked 'em. They definitely give you a better feel for braking.

I had for a while a manual disc brake 2nd gen Camaro, I found that the pedal was easier to modulate to avoid lock up over power. As CJ and others said 12" of vacuum is enough, I have run as low as 9" in gear, pedal was alittle stiff but it worked OK.

See guys I have a car with tall spindles that worked correctly. :D