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I have a '57 Top Flight that I would like to enjoy driving more but the brakes are somewhat scary to me, especially in heavy traffic. I have been thinking of converting the front brakes to disc but don't want to effect the cars's value. Can the job be done and then converted back to original if a future buyer wants it stock, and if so, any ideas as to cost?....thanks
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Re: '57 Disc Brakes
Master Brake in North Carolina sells this kit. You can convert back. -
Re: '57 Disc Brakes
This is true, and their disc kit for early Vettes seems to be a good brake option. I have installed one kit on a customer's 57. Only the front disc kit, and adjustable proportioning valve was installed (downstream of the brake block below the battery) for the rear drums. This was all that was done to begin with to see how front discs alone would affect braking. If a power booster, or dual master cylinder were needed, that could be a later addition. So far, so good. The customer has concluded the disc kit and proportioning valve were just right. His 57 retains its original appearance and braking is considerably improved.
Two things you should know. first, the adapter for the inner bearing is such a tight interference fit that it should NOT be driven on. That will create too much stress on the kingpins and bushings and on the upper and lower pins of the spindle support. Either a puller should be rigged to pull on the adapter (which I did), or, the kingpin should be removed so that the spindle can be placed in a press for installing the adapter.
Second, the front tread width will be increased about 1in. This is not really noticeable, but it will be wider.Comment
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