When the '63 Corvette hit the showroom floor, it was an instant success. A bold new body style captured the hearts and minds of the automotive press and consumer alike. It's hard to believe that one of the major changes that would greatly benefit the Corvette's performance persona would be another two years down the road. A car that goes fast but cannot stop is deadly, and the designers at Chevrolet introduced disc brakes on Corvettes starting with the '65 model year and they haven't looked back.
Stainless Steel Brakes Corporation has looked back--back to the cars that should have utilized disc brakes. When engineering a kit to replace the drum brakes on the '63-'64 Corvettes, Stainless Steel Brakes included technology that not only exceeded the drums of the earlier cars but also contained benefits over using the factory disc setups that were such an improvement back in 1965. Its new Force 10 aluminum calipers are lighter, removing 16 pounds of unsprung weight from your Corvette's front suspension. Also, the Turbo slotted rotors have CNC-machined groove patterns for improved wet braking, reduced brake fade, and improved pad cleaning. These attributes are beneficial for any brake setup from '63 to '82, and light-years ahead of drum brakes. Follow along as we bring this '64 Corvette's front drum brakes into the next century.
DIFFICULTY INDEX
1 Anyone's Project--No tools required
2 Beginner--Basic tools
3 Experienced--Special tools
4 Accomplished--Special tools and outside help
5 Professionals Only--Send this work out
When removing the old drum-brake...
When removing the old drum-brake system, you can save some work and time by disconnecting the steering arm, brake line, and upper and lower ball joints. This will allow you to remove the entire backing plate, spindle, and brake assembly in one task. You'll eventually need to disassemble the brakes to get the hub out of the drum and steering arm, but the kit will have everything else you'll need. As always, be cautious of the coil springs. Use a spring compressor or put a jack under the lower control arm to prevent the spring from going into unexpected orbit.
If your ball joints need replacing,...
If your ball joints need replacing, this is the time to do it. If they're in good condition you can install the new spindle supplied in the kit. Don't forget to install the cotter pins.
Install the supplied caliper...
Install the supplied caliper mount and backing plate to the spindle.
Fasten the steering arm between...
Fasten the steering arm between the spindle and backing plate.
Stainless Steel Brakes supplies...
Stainless Steel Brakes supplies all new bearings and races in each kit, but you'll have to use the hub from the old system. Take the time to clean it thoroughly and inspect the lug bolts. This is the time to make any repairs.
Once the hub assembly is ready,...
Once the hub assembly is ready, install the new races along with the freshly packed bearings. Don't forget to install the new seal for the back of the hubs. Gently tap it into place with a hammer, being careful not to damage or warp the seal.