I'm converting from drums to discs on my 69. I got a complete set-up used, but the spindles aren't usable (someone ground the inner bearing surfaces off the spindles). I've heard that drum spindles can be modified for disc use. I think all that's involved is milling .750 off the pad near the top of the spindle (I'm a machnist and could do this no problem). Is this correct? Is there anything else I'd have to do?

Thanks,
Dave
Team Chevelle member #373
69 SS convertible

Yes as far as I know you just need to machine and tap the holes for the caliper mounting bracket.

Thanks Bob. As soon as I'm done modifing the drum spindles, I'll report back with exactly what I did to convert the drum spindles for disc use.

Thanks,
Dave
Team Chevelle #373

Dave, have you had any luck in machining your drum spindles for disc use? I'm facing the drum to disc conversion myself and I'm interested in whether or not you had any luck, and in any advice you could give to me. Thanks!

The spindles were a piece of cake to do. I have a set of disc spindles that are toast (someone took a disc grinder to the bearing surfaces - it ain't pretty!) that I compared my drum spindles to. All I had to do was mill 3/4 of an inch off the boss near the upper ball joint where the spring anchor was bolted into when it was a drum spindle. I tapped out the hole (the spring anchor now caliper bracket hole) to full depth, and viola, I now have disc spindles. I wish everything was this easy!

Dave

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Team Chevelle #373
69 SS Convertible

dave,you looking to make a few bucks? i have a 66 malibu thats going from a 230 6cylinder to a worked 427.for some reason a single master cyl drum brake system doesnt sound so great,let me know.thanks. Rob

I too machined my drum spindles to disc. They been on for two years and no problems.
CFR.

Hey, how about posting a picture of the spindle, and let us know what threads you tapped the hole to.
I've got drums and if they're that easy, except for all the other stuff needed http://www.chevelles.com/forum/frown.gif
I think everyone will appreciate it. I know I will.

Rick
72 Malibu
98 Fatboy
Team Chevelle Member # 369

The downside is that you still need to have caliper mounting brackets which are $100 or more for a new set if you don't have a used set.

I did my conversion also, but the dimension we used from another posting was around .580". It seems to mount properly. I did have to buy a bullet-nosed tap (think it is 9/16 fine thread or some oddball). The big problem is the caliper mounting brackets and backing plates - they are not cheap and hard to get used. At this point I still need to finalize the plumming but have not purchased a combinaiton valve. Does anyone have recommendations, because I am uncertain whether to go with a stock replacement item or an adjustable type aftermarket.