63 SWC: Advice on Brake Changes

[Duke W.]

Re: 63 SWC: Advice on Brake Changes

If you're concerned about the brake pipes, replace them. On '63s the pipe to the rear brakes is held to the frame rail by spring clips - no screws (see the AIM), so it can probably be removed and replaced without having to slightly lift the body, which is the case for later years when the retainers were held to the frame with screws.

If you rebuild all the hydraulic components with silicone fluid, and replace the pipes and hoses, the chance of a hydraulic failure, even if you never, ever flush the fluid is extremely remote - a lot less likely than a cheaply constructed , S-rated tire disintegrating at highway speed.

Duke

[Frank D.]

Re: 63 SWC: Advice on Brake Changes

My '61 has 73 Camaro front disc brakes and stock rear drum brakes - I bought it that way and it stops like a modern car. With the original M/C.

My '63 has all original 4-wheel drum brakes and I would be loathe to change those out on a nicely restored piece. I added original '63 power brake booster and original power M/C and it stops nicely - but not like my '61. I think you'll make some grief for yourself with a dual M/C anyway and maybe have to notch the hood depending on what set up get. You can get a '63 passenger car booster and put the '63 Corvette mounting bracket on it (available from Dr. Rebuild) and the power M/Cs are now reproduced. You could have power brakes for a fraction of what I spent.

If you monitor your brake system and are attentive to how it operates you'll get plenty of warning before a single M/C goes completely South on you...