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#81903 08/23/2007 5:31 AM
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 108
D
'Bolter
'Bolter
D Offline
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 108
Brakes on my '51 3100 just don't stop well at all. Even with new shoes & cylinders that I replaced a few years back, it didn't get any better. So in order to improve drivability I plan to install a front disc conversion.

Perhaps some of you who have done the conversion can comment on where you sourced the kit and how satisfied you were with the product?
To be honest they all look extremely similar and it might just come down to best pricing (any tips there appreciated also!)

As part of the swap I do intend to go with TRBs. Plan to stay with 6 bolt wheels, so will use a spacer as necessary (although I also see some suggestions for minor wheel mods).

One other part there seems to be mixed feeling on is need for booster - I see some comments that say not necessary. My current feeling is that dual master is must anyway, so probably just go ahead & add booster while we're at it.

All comments appreciated.


'51 Chevy 3100 Truck - OEM 216 Engine; three speed column shift transmission
6 Bolt disc conversion with dual master/vacuum booster
12V alternator conversion.
235 engine in waiting grin
#81904 08/23/2007 7:37 PM
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 8,351
L
'Bolter
'Bolter
L Offline
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 8,351
I can't give an opinion on which kit is best, as I'm still running drums myself, but I say that yes, you will need a dual ciruit master cylinder. The kit should include the correct prop valve and other components for correct hookup. You may have to make up some lines, if not included in the kit, but that's relativley easy. Do a search in the Forums, there's lots of good tips and tricks on making the lines.
One more thing I'll add, in my own opinion from experience driving trucks w/o boosters and having disk brakes, put a booster on. You'll be much happier with the results if you do. Disk brakes are not self energizing like most drum brakes, so they really do need some sort of boost to be effective.


Bill Burmeister
#81905 08/23/2007 8:02 PM
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 108
D
'Bolter
'Bolter
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Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 108
Thanks Bill
I do appreciate the advice but to clarify, don't have any concerns about how to do the install.
I recognize, as mentioned, dual M/C is a must (with prop valve for the rear drums) - the only question regarding that was over booster requirement. I too would expect to include this from my own expectation and only ask because on another thread recall some comment that a user felt it wasn't necessary (but then again, some are happy with the drum brakes too!). Your personal experience of driving disc-brakes trucks without booster is certainly again most appreciated, Bill.
Mainly looking for comments from those who have actually purchased & installed a kit & your degree of satisfaction with it.


'51 Chevy 3100 Truck - OEM 216 Engine; three speed column shift transmission
6 Bolt disc conversion with dual master/vacuum booster
12V alternator conversion.
235 engine in waiting grin
#81906 08/23/2007 8:26 PM
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 23
G
Apprentice
Apprentice
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Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 23
I used the wheel kit from classic parts and the master cylinder kit from master power.I went with the manual kit and i wish i would have gone with the power.


save a camaro,run a straight axle
#81907 08/23/2007 9:26 PM
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 108
D
'Bolter
'Bolter
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Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 108
Quote
I went with the manual kit and i wish i would have gone with the power.
That's kind of thing I'm looking for - Thanks!!


'51 Chevy 3100 Truck - OEM 216 Engine; three speed column shift transmission
6 Bolt disc conversion with dual master/vacuum booster
12V alternator conversion.
235 engine in waiting grin
#81908 08/24/2007 2:30 PM
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,971
B
'Bolter
'Bolter
B Offline
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 1,971
If I was switching over I would definetely go with power assist brakes. Why go half way?


Moderated by  Phak1, Woogeroo 

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