I'm looking at upgrading the brakes on my '49 Chevy Fleetline. Since its not a real desireable classic, I don't want to pour huge amounts of cash into it. I've seen a number of disc brake conversion kits for stock spindles NOT using the mustang II type crossmember. Classic Performance Products has one listed on E-bay for $339.00. Has anyone done this upgrade and used their parts? I'm planning on new spindles and bushings,lines etc. I will be adding a disc brake rearend (S-10) and an open driveshaft so I can use the original 6 cyl (runs exceptionally strong) mated to a T5. Advice greatly appreciated! Thanks Inuke '49 Fleetline
Hey I also have a 49 and did the swap to disc here is a link to check out http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=284052 Drdave and I both did the swap and are both happy with it, any questions feel free to ask away!
You could just upgrade to 51-54 drum brakes. Alot of people go with a m-2 front end so it should be easy to find a set of drums and backing plates. Todd
I used the basic ECI kit, bought the warranty parts local, made my own trans mount and master cylinder conversion mount, and paid for a new made to fit drive shaft. It is so easy to have real brakes, why mess with drums on a fat fendered car? I can run faster than a stock 53, shouldn't I be able to stop faster too? My sheet metal is straight. I'd rather run discs than do body work. The t5 is such an easy swap, and the stock 3 speed sucks so bad, why not?
come on now!!! these cars took alot of crap in the 50's and stuff cause it was differnt! its a chopped car from the factory. they are my favorite body style. but i guess its one of the cars you gotta have a taste for. mines got mustang II with a nova rear end. 283/350th and i am getting 31 miles to the gallon. If you not gonna hot rod it put the 53-54 brakes on the front they dont ride the best with the stock front end. and if you have to rebuild the front end your gonna have pretty close to a mustang II price tallied up.
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