Sway bar vs SC&C Stage 2, and other questions-

Trying to make some handling and safety upgrades on a budget and looking for advice on most bang for the buck. I have a '68 skylark Custom, with a 455 in it. Running on 15" wheels. Want to install disc brakes and thinking of using the Right Stuff disc conversion kit on the front. (any better options to consider?)

Of course, while I am into the wheels and suspension, I want to tackle a few other projects to improve handling.
- Stock control arm set up but replace bushings and ball joints vs SC&C Stage 2 with new control arms and tall ball joints
- is the extra money for SC&C really worth it? (this is for fun cruising, not track stuff)
- bushing recommendations?
- What about SC&C vs a beefier new front sway bar?

Also- seems like I need to replace springs - ride is way to soft and I am not sure if they upgraded springs when the but in big block.
- any recommendations on springs? Adjustable or not?

Finally- should I look at getting bigger rims before i do disc brakes/suspension. Will Right Stuff (i think 11" rotors) get me enough stopping power?

Thanks

 

When I hear "budget" I tend to think gently used or off the shelf. If you already have 15" wheels, the stock-ish factory-type setups work great for anything most people will encounter short of hot lapping at a road course.

Here's what I will do to my 71 350 car (already done more to my 70 Stage 1 car and will streamline it on the GS350):

1. Tubular (inexpensive) upper arms Ebay uppers $137
2. Proforged tall upper ball joints Ebay Summit ball joints $99
3. Factory-ish 11" rotor front disc brake conversion (power already?) Brakes - dust caps to master caps $595
4. New front springs & shocks (if needed) Varies with your preference
5. 1.25 70-81 Trans Am front sway bar with urethane end links Sway bar - links at any parts store $120
6. 12.7:1 Quick ratio steering gear box Advance Auto Grand National Gear $122
7. Factory rear sway bar with boxed control arms Factory style rear bar - box your own rear arms or use spacers $90

With springs and shocks you are probably going to have about $1500 in a decent suspension that will handle with a new car if you get a five degree positive caster, one degree negative camber alignment on it.

 

Excellent tips. Much appreciated!

 

If you're looking for a budget conscious street car, the stage 2 may not be strictly necessary. Why not upgrade to bigger sway bars, boxed control arms, and F41 braces and see how you feel. Same thing with the disc brake setup. If you're wanting to keep the factory rallye wheels, a stock setup would be more than sufficient to take care of the upgrade. It's a slippery slope, I started out with sway bars and I'm now on a full UMI kit with coilovers and Baer brakes. It ultimately comes down to your goals with the car and a realistic budget.