Posted by T.L. on September 11, 1998 at 17:02:25:
In Reply to: Re: disc brakes posted by Ron S. on September 11, 1998 at 10:10:51:
I performed this upgrade on my '73 years ago. You shouldn't need to mess with the fuel line on a '73 other than the clamps that hold both the brake line and fuel line simultaneously to the chassis. I would get the portion of the brake line from a '74 disc-brake Maverick that runs from through the shock towers to the front wheels. You'll need a disc brake Master cylinder as well but the push rod may be too long so try to get a push rod from a drum brake master or your pedal will be WAY TOO HIGH. You didn't mention whether you were going with power assist or not. Manual is MUCH easier to install. I think the stock proportioning valves SUCK. Try going with an adjustable aftermarket one. Otherwise, you don't need to change the brake lines or prop. valve at all (except for the front part I mentioned earlier) unless you're going with power brakes in which case you have to change EVERYTHING including the steering column/pedal mount, pedal and everything. BTW The whole purpose for the proportioning valve is to reduce rear-wheel lockup. I've made all the mistakes with this swap and believe me; the easiest way is to keep the original brake lines and prop-valve intact and just change the spindles, master-cyl., the lines that run through the towers and flex hoses...BTW--this swap is WORTH IT. No more trouble stopping in the rain, no more pulling to one side, and much less "brake fade"...
: It really is pretty easy, the toughest part seems to be getting it all taken apart (I don't have the 'luxury' of air tools). One more thing you'll need to change (at least for a V8) is the section of fuel line that runs along the frame rail (it comes apart just under the driver's floorpan) as they're routed differently between a 'drum' car and a 'disc' car (as are the brake lines). I suggest getting the lines from a donor disc Maverick to use as patterns (assuming you will be bending new lines yourself) because the brake hose connections 'move' also.
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: : As soon as it gets below 100 degrees in Phoenix I'm going to the junk yard in search of disc brakes to put on my 73 Mav. What do I absolutely need to take off of the donor car. Lines, discs and calipers I'll buy new. I just need to know if I need anything besides the spindles.