When muscle cars rolled out of the factory during the 1960s and 1970s, many were equipped with mundane and often inadequate drum brake systems. Drum brakes on all four corners or front discs and rear drum brakes were standard on most muscle cars. However, high-horsepower and, modified muscle cars place great demands on the brake system. The brakes can overheat under extreme use, and this can lead to dangerous brake fade. These cars need aftermarket high-performance brakes to match their power output so the cars maintain agility, responsiveness, and an acceptable degree of safety. In Muscle Car Brake System Upgrades, veteran author and expert Todd Ryden covers system design, operation, and component function, so you have a clear understanding of all principles. Ryden helps you assess your brake system requirements and select brake system kits for many popular muscle car applications from aftermarket brake leaders including Baer, Wilwood, and CPP. Aftermarket brake conversions for factory 14- to 15-inch wheels are shown; also covered are installs for 16- to 20-inch wheels. If you have unique or specialized performance requirements, you are shown how to design a custom system to reach your braking performance goals. Included are detailed step-by-step installs for a variety of popular muscle cars from Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors. Instruction is provided for selecting individual components plus installing master cylinders, complete pedal assemblies, steel-braided brake lines, calipers, and rotors.
Brakes are an essential control and safety device, and a top-performing and properly calibrated braking system should be the highest priority. Crate and modified classic engines can increase horsepower by 30 percent or more, and as a result, an upgraded brake system is an absolute must. In the pages of this book, comprehensive instruction for selecting, installing, and setting up high-performance brake systems is provided for a variety of models, wheel sizes, and applications.