Would there be any benifit to upgrading to brake components from the newer third gen cars? Were the brakes this bad from 1982-1992? I know theres always upgrading to the 1LE brakes, but I'm kinda on a budget. I just started my brake upgrade by ordering some earls braided steel lines, I hope they help.

 

If you're on a budget the stock brakes can be made to work just fine. Bigger brakes only really needed for competition. For street use, properly functioning stock brakes are more than adequate. Drums on raer will work fine.

Key to making the stock brakes work is choosing quality components. Particularily brake pads and shoes. Many different opinions here ( Personal choice usually ) but Bendix Titanium pads work very, very well. Buy the premium Bendix rear shoes as well if you have drum brakes on the rear. Raybestos " Sure Stop " pads are horrible BTW. Stay away from them. ( My opinion of course). Poor retardation and poor modulation.


Front Brake calipers are dirt cheap...so buy quality parts. Same with rotors and drums. Beware of off shore parts. Replace all of the hardware and springs. Unless the rotors and drums have been replaced before, it is likely that you will need new ones. Again, buy quality brand name parts here.

Oh yeah....one other item that is a must. Heave the factory proportining valve as far as you can throw it!!!! Get an adjustable unit such as a WilWood.

If the factory system is maintained properly, functioning properly and the proper pads and linings are used the brakes will be more than adequate for any intended street use.

 

THANKS!!