Wide 5 to 4-lug swap?

Question

How much trouble would it be to do a brake swap from 5x205 to the newer

4x130mm setup? I've got a '66, and I was thinking of doing a disc conversion on the front. The wide 5 kits seem hugely expensive when compared to the 4-lug kits, so I got to wondering how difficult it would be to use the newer drums on the old swing axles (I figure the front wouldn't be much of an issue, since it's ball-joint already). I don't have any custom rims or anything, so I'm not particularly tied to the
5x205mm bolt pattern. Any ideas or recommendations? Also, does anyone know what's a good dual-circuit master cylinder to use? I've suffered a catastrophic brake failure with a single circuit brake system before, and I'd rather not go through that again, if possible.

Baja Mike · Accepted Answer

if you use the late model drums you have to machine off about .55 inch fromthe snout....   or use a 68 swingaxle--MIKE

dave · Answer

Baja Mike is right!When I did my 66, I had to drill some adjusting access holes in the backingplates, I used the original rear brake shoes in the rear and 4 bolt brake drumswith the outer snout cut down some.  Although a later model backing plateshould work for you too.I also think if you are going with the front discs, the outer tie rod endsmight need to be changed.  Not sure on this though.  :-)later,daveReminder........Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way,when you criticize them, you are a mile away from them, and you have theirshoes. Frieda Norris

Wide 5 to 4-lug swap?

Join the Discussion

Didn't find your answer?