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Welcome to FordPinto.com, The home of the PCCA => Pinto FAQ => Topic started by: turbopinto72 on September 02, 2004, 09:15:33 PM

Title: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 02, 2004, 09:15:33 PM
Im starting a new topic that most of us have thought about at one time or another. What to do with the front brakes? There are options out there but I want to limit this to what has ( already) been done. There are two sub sections to this topic. Pre 1974 cars and post 1974 cars. As I understand it, there are a bunch of choices for 1974 and up cars and very little choices for 71-73 cars. Lets discuss both. We can talk about the popular choices, i.e. Wilwood, SSbrake,US brakes etc. and the factory type i.e. Granada etc. Rember, this ( should) be about what you HAVE done or ARE doing now, as apposed to what you heard.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: perce111 on September 07, 2004, 12:25:20 AM
I don't think there are a lot of choices for disc brakes if you want to keep the four lug wheel.
I have been looking for a larger brake based on the  stock four lug Mustang/Pinto rotor.
There seems to be no one willing to offer one of the street rod 11" kits based on the stock rotor.
If you want a 5 lug set up its no problem for the 74 up cars........I dom't

Hope everyone had a good holiday weekend.

Later
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 07, 2004, 10:03:21 AM
Thanks for the reply. Based on the amount of responce to this post I will modify it to include ( Ideas ) of what might work on early cars both 4 and 5 lug.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 07, 2004, 10:14:45 AM
 So, this is what I am thinking about. After looking at ALL ( or at least most) of the options available to the 71-73 cars, I am thinking about doing a Granada 5 lug rotor with Willwood 4 puck calipers and MAKING my own brackets. This will give me 11", 5 lug rotors and a good light weight caliper. I think you could do a stock 9" rotor and use an after market caliper for a 9" rotor and make an adapter. The problem with most caliper adapter's are that they are a plate, that mounts on the spindle. Depending on how thick the plate is AND if the rotor is any wider ( front to back) moves the whole assy. out board. This moves the wheel out and starts to mess with your wheel clearence to the fender. A bracket that bolts to the stock mounting position would help with this issue. Then, only the rotor would move the wheel out ( if any). Let me know your thoughts on the Granada rotor/ Willwood Idea.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: dick1172762 on September 07, 2004, 12:38:43 PM
Late model Pinto (74/80) front  brakes can be put onto a 71/73 Pinto two ways. The 74/80 calipers can be adapted to the 71/73 spindals with a little machine work. Or the entire unit (spindal/caliper/rotor) can be adapted by useing different ball joints/tie rod ends. Changing the entire unit is the best way. I've done both with better brakes both ways.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 07, 2004, 07:31:33 PM
Thanks for the info Dick. I have purchased a pair of Granada rotors and will be starting the swap soon ( 1973 Pangra). As allways I will have a ton of pictures and all the measurments you will need.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:45:01 PM
 Ok, Ive got the Granada rotors on. Here are some pictures of the rotor swap with measurements. This first pic is of the stock 9", 4 lug 1973 rotor. The distance between the top A arm and the wheel mounting surface is 3 3/4 "
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:46:24 PM
This pic showes the stock unit and the distance between the top A arm and the rotor surface. This measurement is 2".
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:48:36 PM
 Next, the rotor was fitted with bearings and pre fitted on the spindle. It was determined that the dust shield, where it fits around the back side of the rotor, hits. This does not alow the rotor to slide all the way on. SO, off went the dust shield.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:50:36 PM
 Now, with the dust shield off the rotor was installed. I used the SAME berrings and rear seal out of my stock unit. Yes they do fit and are the same size.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:51:44 PM
Here is a view from the back side. You can see the factory mounting holes for the caliper, which I will use on the new calipers.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:54:15 PM
Now comes the good part. I measured the same points as the factory unit to deturman if there is any difference in rotor off set. As you can see, there is NO DIFFERENCE. The same 3 3/4 " was measured from the A arm to the wheel mounting surface.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 08, 2004, 06:55:17 PM
Also the same measurement as stock at the rotor surface to A arm.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: HighHooder on September 11, 2004, 12:41:55 PM
Okay, so here's the deal... I have a '72 1600cc trunkmodel.  It has disk brakes, and by the looks of everything they are ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT from the MANUFACTURER.  I'm talking even my brake pedal has the "Disk Brakes" emblem on it.  I'm the third owner, it has 167k original miles, this car is still running the original clutch (yes, it's slipping and the t/o bearing makes a bit of noise).  I can't see any modifications besides a poorly done re-upholstery job on the drivers seat.

so, I guess what I'm asking is "Didn't these cars come with a disk brake option?"... mine seems to have ??? (and if so, wouldn't this be available elsewhere as a 4-lug swap?)
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 11, 2004, 12:51:12 PM
Yes, there was a disk brake option from the factory. Im not sure what you mean by " availabe elsewhere as a 4-lug swap"  ???
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: HighHooder on September 11, 2004, 01:01:04 PM
what I mean is that a Versaille or Granada swap makes for a 5-lug set up, as compared to the standard pinto 4-lug.  What other fords came with this same 4-lug disk brake set up?  It can't just be pintos.  I suppose if you live someplace where Cortinas are common you could rob them of their disk brakes...

 I dunno, maybe I'm just thinking "out loud", but there HAS to be other sources for 4-lug disk brakes to swap into a pinto.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on September 11, 2004, 01:08:43 PM
 OIC, I know the Mustang II had 4 lug disc rotors that will work on a pinto spindle. It would stand to reason that a falcon might  ???, not sure though. The probblem is that even though the " Hot Rod" guys use M II/Pinto spindles on their cars, They like the 5 lug pattern for better wheel options. Every Hot Rod supplyer I have called wont even think about doing a 4 lug, larg Dia. rotor and caliper set up becouse as far as they are concerned there is no market for it.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: 73wagon on September 25, 2004, 01:58:27 PM
 1. Why won't the later model rotors fit the early cars? I'm told all the bearings are the same. 2. Are the mounting points for early and late calipers the same? I know that the height of the spindle assembly is different but are the caliper mounting points different as well ?  Incidentally, Falcon, Mustang and Maverick 4 lugs are 4 1/2 bolt circle diameter like early Datsuns, Toyotas etc.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: roadracebobcat on October 15, 2004, 09:04:37 PM
I know that the 1979-1982 Mustang 4 cylinder models used 10" brake rotors, and I have seen some Pinto racers (B-Sedan) with those rotors and calipers, with an adapter to use the Mustang caliper on the Pinto steering knuckle. It takes some engineering and careful thought. Probably heat treating, etc. I know it will work, because I have seen it. It will even fit in a 13" wheel.  Some SCCA racers should be able to verify this.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: RNRPINTO on October 17, 2004, 01:45:02 PM
MP Brakes warns you will need 15" wheels with the Mustang II kit. I want to do Granada rotors, will I need 15" wheels?
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:13:25 PM
Front brakes part 2. Ive got the calipers on now. Here is what I did. I used a front caliper from a 1983 Monte Carlo Part # 208783-C160 and # 208785-C161. $11.99 + core charge of $10.00 each. I used a Duralast Gold brake pad # 529457 DG154 $ 28.99. You will need 2 pair of " brakeware" H5004 or Wagner F6074 or Bendix H5004 bolts that go through the caliper and allow the caliper to slide on the bracket.You need 2 , 1/2-20x2" 1/4 bolts and 2, 7/16-14x2" bolts to fasten the bracket to the spindle. You need 2 Brackets. This is a problem because Nobody makes them for 71-73 cars. For 74 and up you can use the brackets you can buy off ebay. I bought my brackets off ebay and modified them for a 71-73 type spindle. I cut the top mounting insert off, then mounted the caliper using the lower bolt. I threaded the top bolt into the threaded insert I cut off the bracket and used compressed air to move the caliper piston into its correct position. With the caliper firmly locked up on the rotor I tack welded the top bracket/insert in place. Then I took it all apart and welded the insert to the bracket.
The next few pictures will show you what it looks like.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:15:37 PM
This picture you can see how much I moved the top mounting insert from the 74 and up bracket.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:17:29 PM
Here is what a 74 and up bracket looks like on a 73. You can see the missalignment.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:18:54 PM
I did need to shim the bottom out also. It needed about 5/16".
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:19:53 PM
Here is a head on view.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:20:42 PM
This is the top of the caliper.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:21:28 PM
An inside view
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:22:19 PM
Top front view.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:23:03 PM
inside looking at the bracket.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on November 04, 2004, 05:28:06 PM
Now, the down side to this project. 1) Modifying the brackets. 2) this setup is heavier than the stock 73 setup. The stock rotor is approx 9 lbs, the Granada rotor is 14 lbs. The stock caliper and bracket, loaded, is 7 lbs, the GM caliper and bracket, loaded is 6 lbs. Thats a net increase of +(-) 4 lbs per side. 3) You MUST use 15" or larger wheels to clear the calipers.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: gawdzuki on December 11, 2004, 08:46:32 PM
So from what i understand is... That the front brake assy, from 73 and earlier is different from 74 and later...
 Well, thanks for the information. I am planning on going with 15" wheels and was thinking on switching to a 5 lug pattern. hmmm. Here is a question. does anyone know if the lower A arm can be replaced to get rid of the lower control arm. I though I saw it somewhere. Not sure.
  Well, I guess that it will be a little more research to get everything done that I want to.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: 77turbopinto on February 18, 2005, 08:27:04 PM
I had a little different experience doing the upgrade to my 77. I purchased the kit with Granada rotors from rjays.com, and purchased the hoses locally.

I had to remove the dust sheild and had clearence issues with the lower control arm to the rotor. It looked fine until I put it back on its wheels and then it rubbed.

Also, I am using 14" alum. wheels with no problems; maybe the early cars need 15s with this swap??


Bill
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: FCANON on June 19, 2005, 02:53:08 PM
I still wonder how much difference the 74 and up spindle has compaired to a 73 and down... if its a few machined parts it would open alot of doors for parts to swap.

Frank
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: Pintony on June 19, 2005, 05:20:17 PM
The 74-UP spindle are 1"+ taller than the early Pinto spindle.
From Pintony
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: FCANON on June 27, 2005, 12:39:55 AM
So in the Big pic of this you have 5/16 difference between the 73 and 74 break mounts.,,.
I will meshure the 74 mustang 5 lug rotor and the 72 rotor and see if its the same as the on you have,,,, I just happen to have a 71 and a 77 suframe at the Print shop, I would have dont it sooner but I just bought a Calipar to meshure with.

Frank ;D
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: bigbill on July 01, 2005, 08:09:58 AM
Why does everyone want to put 5 lug wheels and bigger brakes on a 2300 lb. car? 4 lug stuff works just fine and was factory installed on cars a lot bigger, heavier, and faster than a Pinto! Mustang, T-bird and Cougar all have had very nice wheels at one time or another(15&16 inch) which will fit a Pinto very well and all of them had engine and drive train choices that could be pretty strong. So what's the big deal with bigger brakes and 5 lugs? ???
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: Pintony on July 01, 2005, 09:42:57 AM
Hey Bill,
 I agree. Maybe it has something to do with the 22"+ wheels they are making now???
 Sorry I just do not get it.
Sorry Bill, 4 lug wheels are ugly.
+ many more choices with 5 lug rotors.
 Also if you swap to a beefy rear with 5 lug then you will have to carry  2 spare tires in case of a flat.

 From Pintony
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: bigbill on July 01, 2005, 10:40:57 AM
Maybe I am a little slow minded but why would anyone be misguided enough to install a 5 lug rear end when a 4 lug 8.8 will pick the front wheels of a 3400 lb. Mustang up time after time and never tear up? I have been building Ford cars for over 40 years(I am 58 years old) and I currently own and race a 66 GTA Fairlane with a 439 c.i. FE based engine. It runs the 1/8 mile in 6.699 seconds and 102 mph. This car weighs 2980lbs. and has an extreme amount of torque so yes it has a 9inch rear. A normal small block Ford engine in a 2400 lb. car will NEVER harm a 4 lug 8.8 rear endand you only need bigger front brakes when you go a lot faster and get a lot heavier! I also happen to think Cobra R 4 lug wheels and Mustang Pony wheels look pretty good. I know they are 16 inch but guess what! they will fit a PINTO
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: Pintony on July 01, 2005, 06:18:36 PM
Well Bill,
 Since you do not get it.
The 8.8 is not a bolt-in install.
 Most of the members here do not know how or do not have the resourses to weld in a 8.8 rear.
Also I'm pretty sure that the 8.8 is wider that the stock Pinto rear????
Most everyone uses the MII 8" rear that is still 4 lug.
 For those who want the 5 lug I recomend the maverick V8 rear axel.
 Maybe that will help you understand.
Eventually I will tear out my 8" rear and I'll install my Lincolin Versales Disk brake rear.
 From Pintony
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: bigbill on July 02, 2005, 09:09:17 AM
I fully understand that an 8.8 rear is not a "bolt in" swap but just how hard is it to trim off a few mounting lugs and set the thing down on a set of 3 inch perches and weld the perches to the housing? If most of the members don't have the resorces to do or have done that little bit of fabrication then how are they doing subframe connectors,roll bars,chassis engine mounts, ect.? The small amount of extra width in a Mustang rear end(less than 1 inch) is very helpful in gaining clearance on the back side of the tire and wheel. No, I am very sorry that I don't "Get It". I come from a generation that had to use our heads and develop skills because we could not run out and buy ready made parts. Life is not full of "bolt ins" I was just trying to show some members that they can do these things if they want to I admit I have an advantage over some folks because I have a lot of time andhard work involved in being a mechanic and it is sometimes hard for other people to get acess to the things I can walk out to my little shop and just pick up. I am also very hard-headed in case you did not notice
'



Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: bigbill on July 02, 2005, 11:03:59 AM
I guess this doesn't have a lot to do with the original start of this thread(that's a new term for me. 6 months ago I didn't even know how to turn a computer on and I still don't understand how to type with more than two fingers!) But I guess you can see that I am surely from an earlier time.By the way, the T-Bird Turbo-Coupe I am using for my rear end and transmission donor still has it's original complete turbo engine. I am not going to use it or the bellhousing, flywheel, starter, etc.The whole computer system is there also. If it is the new Hot Tip then I will let someone have it DIRT cheap(200 bucks) I still love the sound of a V-8 through a good set of headers!!!
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: 78pinto on July 02, 2005, 12:42:19 PM
post that in the parts for sale section, along with your location and i'm sure you'll sell it all!
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: 77turbopinto on July 07, 2005, 12:24:36 PM
I agree with pontony, and as for me, the stock brakes did not give my t/p the stopping power it needed. I did not want to put in the power booster. Going to the 5 lug was not what I wanted, but it was the easy way to do it (finding factory rims the size I wanted was easier too). I used 68 stang rear/granada fronts. The rear was not a "bolt-in", but niether was the granada stuff.

The only think that I did not see mentioned here was the clearence issue with the LOWER control arm that I had.

I used brake hoses from a 88 chevy S-10 blazer 4x4 2.8l.

Bill
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: Chris on July 07, 2005, 05:22:21 PM
About conversions…

Do you have to change the Metering (proportional, combination, whatever whoever wants to call it) valve when going from front drums to front discs?
Do you need a residual pressure valve?
Where can you get the brake line fittings for the Master cylinder without using adapters?
I'm having a large problem finding fittings.
Anyone have suggestions or ideas? Thanks.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: 77turbopinto on July 19, 2005, 03:23:35 PM
My replies:

I did not, as mine had discs.

I don't know what exatcly that is, so I will say ???.

I just used the all the stock lines, less the two on the rear axle, but changed the hoses.

I had to look for a while, but front hoses from a 88 chevy s10 blazer 4x4 2.8l, and rear hose from a 68 stang v8(and rear). I had to modify the front frame brackets and install the frame end sides with nuts, and the rear hose (ground it down to fit with the pinto clip).

Yes, take your time and double check your work as you go.  My car still needs some strong brake pedal in-put, but now it WILL stop. I would assume that you have a pre-73 so I have no idea how all of this will work for you. 

Bill
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: FCANON on December 12, 2005, 05:54:48 PM
so what did you use to make the spacers Brad?

Frank
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: turbopinto72 on December 12, 2005, 11:34:06 PM
Frank, I actually used 1/16" stainless washers and added untill it was just right where I wanted it to be.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: 77turbopinto on December 13, 2005, 01:10:31 PM
Has anyone else had a clearence issue with the lower a arm? I had to do some grinding.

Also, I have heard a few people say that they can't run wheels smaller that 15's, but I can run 14's fine.

???
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: Pintony on November 14, 2006, 11:36:42 PM
Hello Brad,
 I wanted to say what an outstanding job you did making and photographing and taking the time to list part numbers for your 11" Granada disc brake information.
I think this will help out most of the members here.

 As always a pleasure to read your posts.

Keep up the great work and I'll keep watching for your posts.

 From Pintony
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: GFPRACING on December 03, 2007, 06:28:23 AM
WITH A 5 BOLT REAR END YOU STAND LESS A CHANCE OF BRAKE OFF YOUR WHEEL STUD'S
AND IT LOOK'S COOLER
AND IT OPEN'S THE DOOR UP TO FIND USED WHEEL EASYER
YOU CAN USE FORD /  DODGE / AMC AND A FEW OTHER'S

GFP
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: map351 on July 12, 2008, 08:22:21 AM
I have a little different approach to the big rotor swap instead of the Big heavy GM caliper. Wilwood makes sells a 74 & up Wilwood caliper bracket simple and light & you can buy good used Aluminum ( Light) JFZ & Wilwood for 10 Bux & up at the local swap meets or check with your local dirt track guys. The Wilwood bracket will need Adjusted for the early spindle but not a big deal they cut a over size slot for centering. I'll make a template with dimensions if anyone wants them. I think the Wilwood is a JFZ knockoff. The JFZ pictured were 10Bux each at a local swap meet..
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Wilwood-Dynalite-Calipers-Dirt-Late-Model-Imca-Race-Car_W0QQitemZ360068436230QQihZ023QQcategoryZ33563QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Mike

(http://inlinethumb64.webshots.com/17727/2975341440038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb36.webshots.com/41315/2328701630038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb24.webshots.com/41111/2678998670038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb21.webshots.com/41428/2755601940038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb26.webshots.com/43289/2055530610038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb43.webshots.com/28522/2534936930038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb19.webshots.com/42194/2065117330038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

(http://inlinethumb42.webshots.com/36201/2943319510038663969S500x500Q85.jpg)

Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Reed on July 12, 2008, 09:58:12 AM
I have a somewhat different and possibly simpler and cheaper suggestion.

I just purchased my first Pinto so i don't know much about them, but I used to be into Mopars and slant sixes.  In the Mopar world there is a similar issue with brakes-  the early darts and valiants had a four piston Kelsey-Hayes disc brake setup that is extremely expensive to find parts for now.  Also, through 73, those same cars had a five on four inch bolt pattern, but 74-76 they got a five on four point 5 inch bolt pattern as well as a standard single piston disc brake system.  Many folks want to swap to the later disc brake system but don't want to swap their rear axles or lose their fancy wheel in the small bolt pattern.

 I knew a gentleman who solved this problem by ordering a rotor blank that would fit the spindle and bearings but he got it machined to the small bolt pattern.  This way, he got the later better disc brake setup but kept the original bolt pattern.

Would it be possible to do something similar for Pintos?  Could a rotor blank be ordered and then the lug bolt pattern machined and the lug bolts pressed in by a machine shop?  Mioght be simpler than all this engineering (although I do have much respect for the skill and creativity of this engineering).
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: map351 on July 12, 2008, 11:08:17 AM
Reed
The 65/67 mustang/Fairlane/Comet used the same K/H caliper just different Spindle adapter, I have 6 sets (2 Mopar) and rebuilt a pair for my pinto but found the JFZ and went that direction to loose a few Lbs on the sprung weight on the front end.

Mike
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Reed on July 12, 2008, 01:08:46 PM
Wow, I earn new things every day!  I haven't pulled the wheels off my 71 yt to see what kind of iscs are on it, but it does have discs.  This thread is GREAT!   8)
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on October 21, 2017, 10:01:33 PM
Rember, this ( should) be about what you HAVE done or ARE doing now, as apposed to what you heard.

I have just recently finished doing what you did in this thread; Granada 11" and GM metric calipers on a '71-73 Pinto.

Firstly, I can confirm that the Granada rotors, bearings, and seals fit right onto an early Pinto spindle. No problem there.

I modified a pair of '74+ metric caliper conversion brackets in a similar fashion. Some pictures are in my build thread here:
http://www.fordpinto.com/it's-all-about-the-turbo/my-1972-turbo-swap-thread/240/

What I wanted to add is this:
- Modifying the brackets makes them and the calipers fit over a Granada rotor. However, if the car's front is lowered substantially like mine is, the caliper banjo bolts/hose ends will hit the upper control arms and it gets worse as suspension compression increases. It greatly reduces turning radius once contact occurs...like under hard braking.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on December 02, 2017, 01:40:45 PM
I have just recently finished doing what you did in this thread; Granada 11" and GM metric calipers on a '71-73 Pinto.

Firstly, I can confirm that the Granada rotors, bearings, and seals fit right onto an early Pinto spindle. No problem there.

I modified a pair of '74+ metric caliper conversion brackets in a similar fashion. Some pictures are in my build thread here:
http://www.fordpinto.com/it's-all-about-the-turbo/my-1972-turbo-swap-thread/240/ (http://www.fordpinto.com/it's-all-about-the-turbo/my-1972-turbo-swap-thread/240/)

What I wanted to add is this:
- Modifying the brackets makes them and the calipers fit over a Granada rotor. However, if the car's front is lowered substantially like mine is, the caliper banjo bolts/hose ends will hit the upper control arms and it gets worse as suspension compression increases. It greatly reduces turning radius once contact occurs...like under hard braking.

Addendum to the last paragraph: It looks like there are two versions of the calipers I got; one where the banjo fitting and bleeder are on the top (the style I have) and one where the banjo is on the bottom and the bleeder is on the upper rear. It looks like the latter with the inlet on the bottom and rear bleeder would probably improve clearance with the UCA by a decent amount.

Since I still have to change to the front hoses, I may put my calipers on opposite sides to get that clearance at the expense of having the bleeders point downward...whi ch will require unbolting them for proper bleeding. It's not an uncommon technique used on motorcycles where the MC is substantially higher than the caliper.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Julee on July 05, 2018, 02:00:01 AM
Thanks for the info Dick. I have purchased a pair of Granada rotors and will be starting the swap soon
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on July 05, 2018, 09:46:17 AM
Since I still have to change to the front hoses, I may put my calipers on opposite sides to get that clearance at the expense of having the bleeders point downward...whi ch will require unbolting them for proper bleeding.
Turns out the stainless hoses I have are too short to use with the calipers upside-down, so I had to keep the rubber lines. It was a PITA to bleed them this time, but it got done. The hoses clear the springs better and UCA clearance is improved, but I think some steering limiters will still be necessary until I figure something else out.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Wittsend on July 05, 2018, 11:27:18 AM
Any possibility that a hole can just be drilled/tapped at the top or is this one of those "metal doesn't look thick enough" things?
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: 65ShelbyClone on July 05, 2018, 11:47:24 AM
I actually did think about that when flipping the parts around. I was reluctant to because the caliper has a sizable boss cast into it just for the bleeder and I didn't really want to disassemble the whole thing just to see if metal behind the piston was thick enough.  The bleeder seals on a taper at the bottom too, so I'd have to get that right or figure out a way around it. I think that's why the threads are so deep.

This car is pretty nose-heavy and fast with a tinfoil chassis and plans to go faster so I want the brakes 100% reliable with no uncertainties. I may investigate it though. On the other hand I'm really looking hard at some Afco aluminum calipers...
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes
Post by: Bullitt4248 on January 03, 2021, 07:44:53 PM
[quote author=dick1172762    "The 74/80 calipers can be adapted to the 71/73 spindals with a little machine work. Or the entire unit (spindal/caliper/rotor) can be adapted by useing different ball joints/tie rod ends. Changing the entire unit is the best way. I've done both with better brakes both ways.
[/quote]

 Please explain how this would work on my 1972 Pinto wagon - thanks
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Wittsend on January 04, 2021, 10:46:42 AM
While there may be others that may answer this question sadly we have pretty much determined that Dick 1172762 had passed away a number of years ago. He was a Pinto racer for many years and thus I assume if the alteration was mentioned by him, it likely was capable of being done. Hopefully someone will be able to verify for you. It would be a solution for the rare and pricey 71-73 rotors.
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Bullitt4248 on January 04, 2021, 10:58:05 AM
Thanks again - I'll keep looking and learning -
Title: Re: Front disc Brakes (4 & 5 Lug)
Post by: Reeves1 on January 05, 2021, 05:40:24 AM
https://www.fordpinto.com/parts-resources-here-is-where-you-can-find-this-or-that/d1fz1102b-d1fz-1102-b-d1fz-1102b-71-73-ford-pinto-rotor/