Re: [AMC-list] AMC Bendix disk brakes - waddaya need to swap 'em?

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

As Andrew pointed out -- the 71-74 brakes are Kelsey-Hayes. They are actually a bit better than the 75-81 Bendix, but I'd stay away from them. Calipers are still cheap (rebuilds) and easy to find, but the rotors are over $100 each. Local stires may not be able to get them at all. If you decide to go the factory route get the 79-83 setup (79-81 Bendix sliding calipers, 82-83 Delco low drag type). You will need everything that attaches to the steering knuckle pin including the spindles. Disc spindles are generally thinner where they mount due to the thickness of the caliper bracket, but V-8 drum brakes may be thicker (depends on width of drum brakes). There were several thicknesses used. You could use drum spindles, but may have to cut them down (must be even, so machine shop time!) or use spacers (grade 8 washers are fine) to properly center the caliper. As long as you are using the small Bendix (79-81 Concord/Spirit 2.6" piston caliper) setup the rotor bearings will fit the d
rum spindles -- this I know from experience. I tried my drum spindle (63 Classic six) on the 79 rotors I use and they fit perfectly. Didn't mount them or compare mounting boss thickness though.

I'd go with the Scarebird setup mainly due to parts availability in the future. Cost will be just under $500 total, but you can easily get inexpensive replacement rotors, and should be able to for the next 20 years. I paid $55 for a 79-83 rotor just a year ago, and only one of the local stores could even get one. Prices will go up, availability down, as time goes on. In 20 years may not be able to find one for $200 (or whatever inflation brings it to... could be3 much more!)... or at all.

---------
Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2011 17:17:19 -0400
From: Bruce Griffis<bruce.griffis@xxxxxxxxx>

Thinking of going to disk brakes on the American. I saw someone that
has AMC disk brakes. Rotors, calipers - but no spindles. If I want to
go disk brakes on the American, what all would I need to grab?

Trying to decide between Bendix disks from a '71 Javelin versus going
with the scarebird kit and applying my son's GM parts discount for
rotors, calipers and stuff.

--
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars"
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://www.amc-mag.com
(free download available!)


_______________________________________________
AMC-list mailing list
AMC-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://list.amc-list.com/listinfo.cgi/amc-list-amc-list.com