The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Updating my 59 Apache?

I have a 59 Apache 1/2 ton. I'm putting in a build 350 and a 400R tranny. I was wondering what if any newer donor vehicle could be used to upgrade my front brakes to power discs. Also wondering what one might have a good rear axle I could swap in relativly easily. Power steering would also be nice! I have a new steering pump on the 350 now but nothing yet on the truck. The whole truck is stock till I do this upgrade.

If you have any suggestions plz email me at [email protected]
Thank you in advance for any help you may offer

Unless you're looking to do an ifs swap, there are several front disk kits available that will convert the stock axle. Same goes for a power steering conversion. Most, if not all, of the parts suppliers (such as American Classic) listed on the Links page carry those kits.
As far as a rear axle, the stock Eaton HO36 is well up to the task. Gearing is 3.90 stock, with a 4.10 and 3.38 optional. The 3.38 gearset is still available if you want better gearing. That axle was very popular in the racing circles, many of the Gassers from the '60s used them (including the famous Stone Woods Cook Swindler) along with many circle track stock cars (Black Widow '57 Chevy).

Thank you Longbox for the advice. I was hoping to cruise over to the local scrap yard and get disc brakes outta another car if possible. The engine and trans are taking a big bite outta a very small wallet! lol

You can get kits to adapt the salvage yard parts to that truck but you wind up with 5 hole wheels. The 6 hole rotors are available but expensive.

if your keeping the front straight axle, you can get front caliper brackets and wheel bearing adaptors here http://www.performanceonline.com/store/customer/home.php

their kits utilize 1970-1978 camaro rotors and calipers, which are readily available at your local auto supplier, or junk yard.

leonard

http://www.performanceonline.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=16632&cat=1073&page=1

http://www.performanceonline.com/store/customer/product.php?productid=18536&cat=1066&page=1

leonard

Thank you all for the great advice. I do intend to switch over to the 5 lug pattern. Sorry I didn't mention that in my first post. I have a brand new set of Crager S/S and rubber to put on after I'm done. Thank you again for the above links also. Gonna be putting in a few orders soon

Since you plan to go to a 5 lug bolt pattern, the Camaro rear end is very popular.