Rear disc brake conversion?

[79 red sled]

I have a 1979 k10 and I’m thinking about converting to disc’s on the back. I’m looking for recommendations on which disc brake conversion kit I should use. What works best and is somewhat eats to install.

 

[GXPWeasel]

I haven't done this myself....yet, but I believe others on here have found aftermarket caliper brackets for the rear axle housing, that allow you to bolt on the same calipers that work on the front. So you would have 2 left, and 2 right, front calipers and rotors. I'm sure there is more to it than that though.

 

[Frankenchevy]

E brake is the main consideration. Other than that, many kits will do the job.

 

[Scott91370]

If your state mandates a parking/emergency brake (Texas does) this will drive the cost up. I haven't found one for under $500 and I just won't spend that kind of money for something I don't need.

 

[Frankenchevy]

I used rear calipers from a ‘78 Cadillac Eldorado. They can use your cable e-brake setup. It took me a couple of adjustments until they’d hold okay, but by themselves probably wouldn’t hold the truck on a boat ramp with a boat tugging on it. Honestly, I never really tested them much, but they’d pass a visual inspection. Not sure what they do for states that test parking brakes.

I pulled the cables when I redid some stuff on my truck and haven’t replaced them with new ones yet. Park in my auto holds it fine, but the thought still crosses my mind whenever I park somewhere steep. I have some harbor freight wheel chocks in my tool box if need be.

I see your truck is a k10, but I know for 205 equipped trucks there are cable actuated driveline disc parking brakes. With a SYE on any TC, I’m sure one could be adapted.

 

[GXPWeasel]

True, the kit or workaround I mentioned above doesn't include an e-brake, and I don't think those states that require an e-brake, allow line locks as a substitute either. To me, if it's an automatic trans, the need for an e-brake is almost never needed. Except for parking on an extreme incline, or dropping a boat off at the ramp. LOL.

To me, having the greatly improved braking power / capacity, especially for towing (like I will need) then it's "needed". That, and I like to drive a bit spirited.

 

[79 red sled]

I’m doing a complete rebuild on the truck and when I dropped the rear axles I noticed that the backing plate was in bad shape. I was wondering if I should just replace the backing plate or just convert to disc. I guess I have to figure out how much money I want to spend

 

[TubeTruck]

If you're keeping it 6 lug just go buy another axle. 6 lugs are cheap and a dime a dozen. Maybe not in Hawaii though 8 lug I would rebuild it.