OEM Disk Conversion '69 RoadRunner with Manual Drums Around

[dkiewicz]

Folks... after 6 years, lots of back surgeries, I'm finally able to work on my mistress. I have manual non-power drums around. I'm just getting to finding out if I have a true survivor by searching the radiator, fender tag and trunk gutter along with the engine and trans. Thus far I believe it is, but I haven;t been able to crawl under her. Anyway, I want to upgrade to the OEM disks up front for safety. I forgot how crappy manual brakes are. I almost went through an intersection trying to stop the first time out. I don't want power, just the disks.

O.k., after that diatribe, if she is a survivor, what impact will that mod make to the vehicle, if any at all? Secondly, I've been through Classic ind. and Jegs etc... All seem to have them, but anyone have (dumb question approaching) any experience/preference on a supplier?

I'd just like a complete kit, but they really are never complete. So, I've searched here and elsewhere and haven't been able to find a discussion of impact this will have, if any on value. Thanks for reading and I hope I'm not wasting bandwidth here. I'm just excited as hell to be able to drive her again once the oil pan is replaced. Yipee!!!!

 

[ckessel]

If you're looking for a package from a great, knowledgable place, hit up Dr Diff. Cass will hook you up with stuff that works and replacement items down the road can be had easily through him or your usual parts stores.
doctordiff.com
If you're down for diy, the Disc O Tech article is what you want.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&sou...0QFnoECBgQAQ&usg=AOvVaw3Nolx5IULUtvzcdnOVBFrv

 

[dadsbee]

Not gonna stop any different with front manual disks. Save yourself the heartache. Properly adjusted drums stop just fine, but they aren't 2025 ABS.

 

[gkent]

OEM is not the answer. Those original 4-piston calipers and rotors are rare as hen's teeth and parts aren't available. Translation: stupid money. I did the Disc-o-tech upgrade on my '69 RR and they work like a charm. No regrets whatsoever. Spindles are readily available. Dr. Diff has the brackets and hoses. Calipers and rotors are available from any auto parts store or Rockauto - and it's all Mopar. And inexpensive !! Oh, you'll likely want to swap the master - and that's a Mopar part also !

 

[4mulas]

This OEM style based on the 1973-1976 A-body factory style brakes, which most conversion kits are. This includes the master cylinder and uses an adjustable rear line proportioning valve. The Chinese prop valves offered elsewhere are questionable and can lead to rear brake lock in my experience and opinion..

The Right Stuff 1962-74 Mopar B/E-Body, Front Manual Disc Brake Conversion Kit - (MDC62SD-P)

 

[68BabyBlue]

Not gonna stop any different with front manual disks. Save yourself the heartache. Properly adjusted drums stop just fine, but they aren't 2025 ABS.

I totally agree with dadsbee, after owning and driving three GTXs with factory disc brakes, and three with factory drum systems. One of the drum cars had a power booster. My current factory power disc brake car feels the same on the street. Current owner of my last drum brake car added a power booster, but kept the drums in place.

 

[dkiewicz]

Thanks for all the input. I'm leaning towards OEM if it's numbers matching and a true survivor. If not, custom it is. I'll know soon. Appreciate the help, but this gang ALWAYS puts out the welcome mat!!!

 

[gkent]

Someone can chime in here BUT I don't think those '69 rotors are made by anyone anymore. Before you spend A DIME on any oem stuff, make sure you have all the components available and ready for purchase. Otherwise you'll have shelled out money for nothing.

Rockauto , who usually have a number of sources for parts, lists ZERO rotors for a 69 Plymouth b-body. They do stock the calipers ... at $175. a pop !!

If you're concerned about a "numbers matching" car, then why are you even thinking of using oem stuff. Guranteed some asshole will look at the fender tag or broadcast sheet and call you out on it !!

 

[68BabyBlue]

Someone can chime in here BUT I don't think those '69 rotors are made by anyone anymore. Before you spend A DIME on any oem stuff, make sure you have all the components available and ready for purchase. Otherwise you'll have shelled out money for nothing.

Rockauto , who usually have a number of sources for parts, lists ZERO rotors for a 69 Plymouth b-body. They do stock the calipers ... at $175. a pop !!

If you're concerned about a "numbers matching" car, then why are you even thinking of using oem stuff. Guranteed some asshole will look at the fender tag or broadcast sheet and call you out on it !!

All my cars were numbers matching. The drum cars stayed that way for good reason. The factory disc components are unobtanium, and priced accordingly when available. And disc conversion wouldn’t match fender tag or broadcast sheet.

 

[gtx6970]

Side by side comparison

Yellow car was manual disc brakes
Black car is manual drum brakes

IMO, neither car stops any better or faster than the other

The ONLY time I can see the disc brakes advantage is coming down a mountain and you're on and off the brakes a lot building heat and causing fade in the drum brake car

If you're racing the car or doing auto cross events , constantly doing high speed passes and standing on the brakes . Then discs are the answer. Otherwise,,,save your money