We are planning to convert the front drums to disks when we start to go through the car. We may just need to find another master cylinder and redo the lines. On the '73 we had, the disks conversion was out of a Granada swap and seemed to work fine. I was wondering if it is worth the process of installing Power Brakes instead? Or is there a better kit that fits a stock Maverick engine compartment? I've seen a few threads on the process but wanted to see if anyone had seen a noticeable difference and what their take away was. Thank you
I converted my 77 from power discs to manual. The power setup is a nightmare with a V8 as far as changing spark plugs. Manual discs are not a problem as far as pedal effort. Spark plug access is 100% better too
I would do after market power brakes. Factory front discs with after market booster. The factory power brake system was an afterthought, and didn't even work all that great. It would also take up more room and be a lot more work to install. Looks goofy too with the funky tower brace on the driver side.
I would go w/ manual brakes and possibly dual piston setup, if going aftermarket. Most likely need at least 15" wheel w/ dual piston. I have Granada manuals on my 73 w/ a 1/4" spacer between firewall and MC - lowers the pedal somewhat from nosebleed height. Properly manual setup, you may find the power setup not worth the effort. As others have stated, the OE setup makes under hood service on that side of quite restrictive.
I went with the stock Granada front disc setup and a ABS power booster unit for ABS power brake in Orange Ca.
Thank you all for your responses. I wasn't even thinking about maintenance on that side and how big of a pain that'd be to work with. Does anyone have a picture of their power booster set ups or duel piston set up(or the part names too). We do plan on putting 15's on all around so there are more options to choose from. I'd rather install it as the car is being put back together rather than going back and redoing it later.
I performed the swap of adding power disc brakes to my 1972 Grabber. I have had both cars: manual disc and power disc brake cars. From a performance standpoint, not really worth the swap. Maybe power disc brakes are a 10% better performer than manual disc brakes.
