Upgrading drum brakes to disc brakes can improve stopping power, heat management, and overall safety for classic American cars. The following drum-to-disc conversion kits are selected for compatibility, ease of installation, and performance gains. Each option targets common GM, Ford, and Chevy configurations, with bolt-on designs and complete hardware for a straightforward upgrade. Use this guide to compare kits and choose the best fit for your vehicle and driving style.
Summary Of Selected Products
| Product | Brand | Vehicle Type | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolt-On Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit | Speedway Motors | GM 10 & 12 Bolt Rear Ends | Two bolt-on caliper brackets, vented rotors, metric calipers |
| Disc Brake Conversion Kit For 1964-1969 Mustang | CARMOCAR | Ford Mustang (V8 drums) | 11″ rotors, complete hardware |
| Deluxe Disc Brake Kit | Speedway Motors | 1955-1964 Chevy Full-Size | Bolt-on, full kit for stock spindles |
| Front Disc Brake Conversion Kit For 1967-1970 Chevy | Speedway Motors | Chevy 1/2 Ton Pickup | 11″ rotors, master cylinder, booster |
| A-Body Front And Rear Disc Kit | Speedway Motors | 1964-1972 GM A-Body | Front & rear, 11″ rotors, complete hardware |
Speedway Motors Bolt-On Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit
This kit targets GM 10 and 12 bolt rear ends, offering a cost-effective bolt-on solution for mid-size cars. The assembly includes two bolt-on caliper brackets, two vented rotors, two GM metric calipers, and all necessary hardware for a complete upgrade. Designed to be straightforward for an at-home installation, it emphasizes compatibility and reliable performance without extensive fabrication.
Disc Brake Conversion Kit Replacement For Ford Mustang 1964-1969
This complete kit upgrades Mustangs from the era with 11″ discs and included calipers, sliding bolts, hoses, and all seals and hardware. It is designed for older drum spindles and requires wheel compatibility with 14″ or larger wheels to accommodate modern disc brake components. The kit emphasizes improved braking efficiency and comprehensive components for a full retrofit.
Deluxe Disc Brake Kit For 1955-1964 Chevy
Upgrade option for late-1950s through early-1960s Chevrolets, offering a bolt-on design with a full component set. The kit claims improved braking performance over stock drum systems and includes the necessary hardware for a complete installation on stock spindles. It targets classic full-size Chevys and emphasizes ease of installation.
Front Disc Brake Conversion Kit For 1967-1970 Chevy 1/2 Ton
This front-only kit provides a complete upgrade path for stock drum spindles on 1967–1970 Chevy 1/2-ton pickups. It includes 11″ rotors, GM-style calipers, a master cylinder, brake booster, hoses, and mounting hardware. The design prioritizes a true bolt-on upgrade with standard components for easier maintenance.
1964-1972 A-Body Front And Rear Disc Brake Kit
Designed for GM A-Body cars (1964-1972), this kit offers both front and rear disc conversion with 11″ vented rotors and 69-77 GM-style calipers. It includes brackets, pads, lines, bearings, seals, and all hardware needed for installation onto factory disc-ready spindles. The setup features a front bolt-pattern compatibility of 5 on 4-3/4 inches.
JEGS Ford 9 in. Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit
JEGS offers a rear disc conversion kit for select 1968-1977 Ford cars. The premium kit includes E-brake and raw calipers, designed to fit Ford 9″ rear axles with non-staggered configurations. It provides a bolt-on solution for upgrading drum to disc with emphasis on compatibility and performance enhancements for the Ford 9″ platform.
JEGS 631027 GM Rear Disc Brake Kit for A-Body
JEGS presents a rear disc conversion kit compatible with many A-, F-, and X-body GM axles, including popular models like Camaro, Chevelle, Oldsmobile Cutlass, Pontiac Firebird, and Lemans. The kit provides an easy bolt-on solution for non-staggered shocks behind the axle, enabling a practical upgrade from drum braking on a range of GM platforms.
1964-66 Ford Mustang Power Brakes Front Disc Kit
This kit focuses on 1964-66 Ford Mustangs with a high-performance feel, featuring low-profile master cylinder front disc conversion with black powder-coated calipers. It targets a vintage Mustang audience seeking an aesthetically clean upgrade without compromising on braking efficiency or style.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Vehicle compatibility: Confirm axle type, bolt pattern, wheel size, and whether the kit supports front-only, rear-only, or full-system conversions for your model year.
- Mounting design: Bolt-on kits are typically easier for DIY installations, while weld-in or spindle-modification kits may require professional service.
- Rotor size and caliper type: Larger rotors improve heat dissipation; ensure calipers and hoses fit your wheels and wheel wells without rubbing.
- Master cylinder and booster: Some kits include these components; if not, ensure your existing hydraulic system is capable of feeding a disc setup.
- Wheel clearance: Verify wheel compatibility, especially for older wheels versus modern disc rotor thickness and caliper width.
- Brake hydraulics: Check hose lengths, hard lines, and proportioning valves to maintain proper pedal feel and balance between front and rear brakes.
- Cost vs. complexity: Budget beyond the kit price to include potential hardware, alignment, and potential machining or coatings for an optimal finish.
- Warranty and support: Look for kits with documented support and return policies, especially when upgrading classic vehicles.
- Maintenance considerations: Disc brakes require periodic pad checks, rotor wear monitoring, and occasional bleeding to maintain performance.
Selecting the right drum-to-disc conversion kit involves balancing compatibility, ease of installation, and braking performance gains. Compare rotor sizes, included hardware, and whether a full system or partial upgrade best aligns with your restoration or daily-driver goals. For safety and reliability, choose a kit from a reputable brand that provides clear installation guidance and adequate support.