Disk brakes on my '71 Nova?

[nova ss 350]

Hi, I just bought a 1981 Pontiac Grand Prix with factory front disk brakes and I wanted to put them on my '71 Nova. I was just wondering if anybody has any expeirience putting this sort of brake set up on a nova, like what parts I will need to use off of the Pontiac. Or if anybody has heard if these parts will fit, I read somwhere that the spindles are taller so I will need a new custom set of A-arms and I think some custom lowere controll arms. Just wondering if this is true, any help would be great. Thanks.

[bobss396]

You would have to eyeball up and take some measurements before you get the wrenches out. I believe the Nova is rear-steer, if the Pontiac is front-steer, it will be a difficult and not worth the effort conversion.

Then you have to match up the ball joints to the spindles. Also the Nova has non-symmetrical upper and lower a-arms. Using the Pontiac spindles & arms would put the wheel off center in the wheel well.

I would look for a junk/used '68-74 Nova set up, some of the Chevelles of the era might be close too. There are also aftermarket conversions that are true bolt in that you should be able to do yourself with 100% success, shop around for best pricing.

Bob

[CRushER]

I did a swap from classic performance parts. It was a complete bolt on kit with disc spindles, master, and power booster. I am really happy with the results.

[motionss502]

I know they make some disc brake conversion kits for nova's for around 500 dollars. Might want to check year ones website.

[71NOVA02]

I have seen tons of front disc kits that are sepecially made for Novas. It would be a hell of a lot easier to spend the money. I put power front discs that I put on in less than a day for just under 500 bucks. they work great and bolted right on. I found a place that sold them in super chevy magazine, but they are all over. Google it
good luck - zach

[Frasers73]

Good reference page:

X Body Disc Brake Swap
http://www.oldengine.org/unfaq/leadfoot/discs.htm

Good luck with it!
-Jon

[bobss396]

We used to do disc conversions right out of the junkyards years ago. But you have to be resourceful and the selection of donor cars is not what it was.

Just make sure that the swap kit uses over the counter GM parts. You don't want to get stuck with some oddball set up that is difficult to get a piece for when you need it.

Bob