Disc Brake Conversion

A disc brake conversion replaces the original drum brake system with modern disc brakes, dramatically improving stopping power, fade resistance, and overall safety.

How drum brakes work (factory 1964½-1973):

• Brake shoes press outward against rotating drum

• Heat builds up inside enclosed drum

• Brake fade occurs under heavy use

• Adjustment required periodically

• Weak stopping power by modern standards

How disc brakes work (modern upgrade):

• Brake pads squeeze rotating rotor from both sides

• Heat dissipates quickly (open rotor design)

• Minimal fade even under hard use

• Self-adjusting operation

• Superior stopping power

Common conversions:

• Front disc only - Most common, biggest improvement

• Four-wheel disc - Maximum stopping power

• Big brake kits - Larger rotors, multi-piston calipers for serious performance

I drove my Mustang with original front drums for exactly one panic stop in LA traffic. Someone cut me off on the 405, I stood on the brake pedal, and the car slowed down like it was considering my request but wanted to think about it first. I ordered front disc brakes that night. The difference is night-and-day terrifying to "actually stops when you want it to."

Disc brakes are a safety issue, not a luxury:

Factory drum brakes (1964½-1967, some 1968s):

• Adequate for 1960s traffic speeds

• Completely inadequate for modern traffic

• Fade badly after repeated stops

• Require frequent adjustment

• Pull to one side when out of adjustment

• Scary in rain (wet drums = no stopping)

Front disc conversion:

• 40-50% better stopping distance

• Consistent performance (no fade)

• Better modulation (easier to control)

• Self-adjusting

• Works in wet conditions

• Cost: $800-$2,000 installed

Four-wheel disc conversion:

• Maximum stopping power

• Balanced braking front/rear

• Professional-grade performance

• Cost: $2,500-$5,000 installed

The LA traffic reality:

Factory drum brakes were designed for 1965 traffic patterns. They're dangerous in modern stop-and-go LA traffic where you might make 10 hard stops in 5 miles. The drums overheat, fade, and stop working effectively.

Every classic car expert will tell you: brakes first, then worry about making more power.