Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee, WI
Car: 85 IROC-Z
Engine: 5.0 TPI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.42 (GU6)
Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
I have read through the sticky post, and have determined what will fit with my current setup as far as rims are concerned, but i am curious about spindle size, bearings, caliper fittings and such.
I have an 85 IROC, with 16" IROC rims, and currently stock brake system that I need to replace anyway, so was planning to upgrade.
I would like to go with something available at my local parts store, such as something from a newer (4th gen) F-body, or a Corvette. And, like i said, I am looking for spindle/rotor/bearing/caliper combinations.
I would also like to go with a lighter system, if possible. If you are aware of these numbers when replying please share.
Finally, I am told that approximately 70% of the stopping power is from the front brakes, which lead me to the decision of keeping the stock setup in the rear (i do have rear discs also) any comments on this???
I have an 85 IROC, with 16" IROC rims, and currently stock brake system that I need to replace anyway, so was planning to upgrade.
I would like to go with something available at my local parts store, such as something from a newer (4th gen) F-body, or a Corvette. And, like i said, I am looking for spindle/rotor/bearing/caliper combinations.
I would also like to go with a lighter system, if possible. If you are aware of these numbers when replying please share.
Finally, I am told that approximately 70% of the stopping power is from the front brakes, which lead me to the decision of keeping the stock setup in the rear (i do have rear discs also) any comments on this???
Last edited by fatcat12; May 10, 2009 at 08:37 PM. Reason: Addition
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 588
Likes: 2
From: France
Car: 1984 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
Engine: V8 5.0L HO (L69)
Transmission: B&W T5
Axle/Gears: 3.73 limited slip
Re: Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
I would change the rear calipers as well, the 82-87 are known for failing. Go for later style calipers or something newer.
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 19,282
Likes: 103
From: Lawrence, KS
Car: Met. Silver 85 IROC/Sold
Engine: 350 HO Deluxe (350ci/330hp)
Transmission: T-5 (Non-WC)
Axle/Gears: Limited Slip 3.23's
Member
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 330
Likes: 1
From: Melbourne Australia
Car: 88 GTA
Engine: Ls1
Transmission: 4L60E
Axle/Gears: 9 bolt 3.27
Re: Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
I recently fitted C5 front brakes to my GTA, with AC/Delco carbon/ceramic pads. It made a MASSIVE difference, and I would think that LS1 brakes would be very similar. As for the rear brakes, I do plan to upgrade mine at some point, but really I have more brakes than I can use on the street, and I live in a very hilly area. The rear upgrade will be as much because I have very open 18inch wheels and the standard brakes look tiny, and the improved handbrake would be nice too.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee, WI
Car: 85 IROC-Z
Engine: 5.0 TPI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.42 (GU6)
Re: Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
When you say you put the C5 brakes on, did the rotor fit the spindle without adjustment? Did you have to change the bearings? Did you also replace your caliper? if so, did you need different mounting hardware?
I have heard people refer to LS1 brakes, is that a reference to the braking system off of an LS1 equipped F-body(or vette)?
I also followed the link provided By James_C, and noticed that they have an LS1 or a C4 brake upgrade, and they don't list the spindle or bearings as parts included... which means they don't need to be replaced to fit the better system? I ask because the link sells the upgrade for far more than a local parts store would. Example... I can get a pair of baer drilled/slotted rotors, dual piston calipers, and new ceramic metallic pads all designed for an LS1 equipped Camaro for under $500... or I can spend $775 through the link (getting standard rotors)
I still just need to know if i can mount the rotors and calipers without any additional modification.
Thanks for the help.
I have heard people refer to LS1 brakes, is that a reference to the braking system off of an LS1 equipped F-body(or vette)?
I also followed the link provided By James_C, and noticed that they have an LS1 or a C4 brake upgrade, and they don't list the spindle or bearings as parts included... which means they don't need to be replaced to fit the better system? I ask because the link sells the upgrade for far more than a local parts store would. Example... I can get a pair of baer drilled/slotted rotors, dual piston calipers, and new ceramic metallic pads all designed for an LS1 equipped Camaro for under $500... or I can spend $775 through the link (getting standard rotors)
I still just need to know if i can mount the rotors and calipers without any additional modification.
Thanks for the help.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee, WI
Car: 85 IROC-Z
Engine: 5.0 TPI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.42 (GU6)
Re: Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
Thanks for the recommendation on changing the rear calipers, but I don't know what fits my car... without too much being changed that is. That is the main thing keeping me from upgrading.
Can you recommend a OE part (what car is it from) that would work as a direct bolt in, or if nothing, what all needs to be changed to make the parts work?
Can you recommend a OE part (what car is it from) that would work as a direct bolt in, or if nothing, what all needs to be changed to make the parts work?
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 19,282
Likes: 103
From: Lawrence, KS
Car: Met. Silver 85 IROC/Sold
Engine: 350 HO Deluxe (350ci/330hp)
Transmission: T-5 (Non-WC)
Axle/Gears: Limited Slip 3.23's
Re: Front Rotor/Caliper Upgrade
http://web.archive.org/web/200605221.../1LEbrake.html
As mentioned in the above, you'll also need to consider a 1LE proportioning valve as well as new brake lines.
PBR's are an easy rear replacement:
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/faq-...iscs-89-a.html
JamesC
Last edited by JamesC; May 13, 2009 at 06:15 PM.
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