Looking to do disc brakes all the way around but don't want to spend the money on conversion kits. Is it possible to use the parts off of other model cars to do this conversion? If so, what cars will interchange with a 65 skylark? Thanks. Conner
I completed a 4 wheel disc conversion on my 65 GS. The fronts were easy, you can get a set at a junk yard off of a 69-72 "A" body. The rears are a different story for the GS. I bought a kit that was supposed to fit but we all know how that goes. It will work on all "A" bodies just not the GS. The problem is the bracket that bolts on to the axle housing. It is fab to fit a GM 10 bolt with the smaller bearing found on GTO'S Chevelle's Cutlass etc. Remember the GS has a larger rear wheel bearing so the bracket has to be larger diameter. That piece is not made. Out came the grinder and various tools to make it work. It came out great, just disappointed with the compamy that said it would fit. Additionally, i think the rear brakes (calipers and rotors) were off of a 3rd gen firebird.
SSBC makes a front drum to disk kit part number A123 the kit includes new spindles and 11 inch rotors for 695.00 http://www.ssbrakes.com/commerce/br...nt Brakes&sub=Single piston Front Brake kits
The days of using junk yard stuff are gone. Rebuilt calipers from your auto parts place are are prone to leaking and short life. I had a customer that bought rebuilt calipers last week. One leaked right out of the box, and I mean leaked...a puddle ! The scarebird stuff with a bracket mounted on your drums spindles are almost more expensive than a conversion kit and is mickey mouse. I have sold dozens of conversions from the Right Stuff in Ohio. Not single failure of any component. Failures end up in insurance claims. With this kit you can use 14 inch wheels as long as they were disc brake wheels. If you want to know more about kits just drop me a PM and I will give you the best advice I know.
I agree with everything you said, I did buy the kit from the right stuff for my 65 GS and had the problem with fitment on the rears. Other than that, very nice setup. Stop on a dime. (and straight)
There's a how-to on Georges site: http://www.buickperformance.com/page1.htm uses 1980's Camaro/Firebird rear disks.
