First Gen disc brake conversion

[nooshinjohn]

Hi guys!

I have decided to convert my 63 to front discs. I believe this topic has been discussed at great length on the old ROA forum, but unfortunately I do not have the info. I know there was a kit made at some point and there are other ways of doing the conversion. Also... is there a way of converting the rears to disc as well?

Any and all information will be greatly appreciated and my thanks as always

John

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[tim63riv]

John,

Tony Gentilecore made up a disc conversion kit with all late model Holden (GTO?) calipers and rotors and brackets. Looks to be extremely well engineered. Another alternative that some guys have been using is one by scarebird, they just offer the mounting brackets and you supply 71-76 Riviera calipers and rotors. With all you guys converting to disc, there should be a lot of decent aluminum front drums available to us cheapskates out here! LOL!!!

Rear discs are probably overkill, but I'm sure that someone will know what is available or what can be converted. Real trick with the rear disc brakes is to get the parking brake hooked up and operating correctly. I guess it all comes down to what are you trying to accomplish and how much are you willing to spend to achieve your goals.

Good Luck,

Tim <img src="http://forums.aaca.org/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

[ShellyB65Riv]

HI John, I "spoke" with Tony Gentilcore in Dec and he doesn't make/supply them anymore. But I have another source for you. He sells them for 800.00 and you will also need to upgrade to a dual master cyl. Which he can also supply. I haven't bought them yet. He did forward me some pictures. I have no idea how to post them here. Are you on the ROA list too? I could forward you his emails and pictures. I should probably ask his permission before posting his email address tho.

[RivNut]

John check out the conversion by Scarebird. www.scarebird.com. They supply the brackets for about a hundred bucks and you get the rest of the stuff yourself, new or recycled, it's your choice. The rotors from the 71-76 Riv were used by GM on many of their large cars that had the 5 on 5 bolt circle. The caliper you chose, Buick or Cadillac, will only make a difference in where the brake hose attaches. The guys at Scarebird have tried to make it so that the parts needed are and will be readily available for some time to come. I priced a complete package, using everything new and I think I came up with about a $600 investment. If you're really serious about rear discs, I'd suggest swapping out the Buick rear end for a 9" Ford. Parts are easily obtainable, you can name the ratio you want, and rear disc kits are readily available. Heck, look for a 9" from a Lincoln Versailles that came from the factory with them. You'll most definately have to go to a dual master cylinder - one designed for a disc/disc set up so you won't have to mess with the residual pressure valve, and you'll need to install a proportioning valve in the system.

Ed