Front Disk brake conversion 1957 Corvette
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: New York
Front Disk brake conversion 1957 Corvette
Hi all,
I'm in the market for a front disk brake conversion kit. I was looking at the one from Corvette Central, Ecklers and MP Brakes. The prices are all over the place for what seems like the same kit. Has anyone used any of these or any recommendations?
Thanks
Rich
I'm in the market for a front disk brake conversion kit. I was looking at the one from Corvette Central, Ecklers and MP Brakes. The prices are all over the place for what seems like the same kit. Has anyone used any of these or any recommendations?
Thanks
Rich
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 14,640
Likes: 4,687
From: Mustang OK
2026 Corvette of the Year Finalist - Modified
2025 c1 of the Year - Modified Winner
2024 C1 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2023 C1 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2015 C1 of the Year Finalist
I've done two Master Power Brake front disc conversions. Both also got the adjustable proportioning valve sold by MPB and it's mounted down below the battery, spliced into the brake block. I don't know that the valve really helps, but I installed it on both cars anyway.
After several years, there have been no issues with either car and they work fine.
After several years, there have been no issues with either car and they work fine.
Pro
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 530
Likes: 360
From: San Clemente CA
I just installed the MP conversion kit in my c1. I chose MP because they will fit stock 15 inch wheels. Very easy installation. I'm still debating whether to put in a proportioning valve. Other forum members report they operate just fine without one. I don't see the downside of installing one.
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2018
Posts: 28
Likes: 3
From: Georgia
Old Thread - new question:
I am looking at kit options and some are available that include a 7 inch power brake booster with proportioning valve mounted below
the master cylinder which is pretty typical of street rod kits,
What master cylinder is preferable when retaining the stock rear drums?
Any complications to be aware of besides wheel size? I think I saw one kit that
adds .5 inch per side versus the stock drum width.
I am looking at kit options and some are available that include a 7 inch power brake booster with proportioning valve mounted below
the master cylinder which is pretty typical of street rod kits,
What master cylinder is preferable when retaining the stock rear drums?
Any complications to be aware of besides wheel size? I think I saw one kit that
adds .5 inch per side versus the stock drum width.
Pro
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 665
Likes: 338
From: Oklahoma
When I was considering this mod (still am) I checked out a lot of different manufacturers products and I think all of them spaced both front wheels further outward. 1/2" further outboard per side seemed to be the norm IIRC.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2021
Posts: 807
Likes: 199
From: NH
I used the kit from Zip on my 62 some years ago. It uses Camaro discs and calipers. The 1/2" is not a problem.
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