Rear brake upgrade...

Black P-38 · Jul 27, 2008

Hey guys, I'm in the early stages of a '91 Ranger 2wd V-8 swap. I plan on keeping the 7.5" rear as I'll be at a low power level, around 225 hp and wont be thrashing on it.

I'll be removing the unit for a "bench" limited slip install, general inspection/freshening of the internals as well as a possible leaf spring replacement. It came with 3.08 gears which is what I want and is in good operating condition. Now would be a good time to upgrade the brakes while I'm at it.

I'd love to see discs peeking through my 15" Ultra alloys but I'll be happy with an upgraded drum set-up with fresh parts.

What parts will be needed and what can I get new/rebuilt?
I'm guessing backing plates will be a used only item.

Hoping to benefit from those who have "been there done that". If anyone has any part #'s, pics of the upgrade or suggestions that would be helpful and appreciated.

Need to add "whoa" along with "GO!"

Thanks!
Mike

rat_ranger · Jul 29, 2008

north race car make a backingplate that runs $150, you use cobra 12 inch rotors with it and cobra calipers. calipers can be picked up for $200 new, or go to a junkyard and pick them up used for less. On the brake line you want to get the soft lines from an 03 cobras rear brakes, and if you use the same sive line as stock just shorter itll all bolt righ up and then you bleed them and your good to go. I dont have any pics but its pretty simple to do. total it can be done for about $450 using all new parts and braided stainless soft lines to the calipers

MAKG · Jul 29, 2008

First determine if you really need it. Pull the RABS fuse and jam on your brakes. If you can lock up the rears, the brakes are as good right now as you will ever get them. I suspect this is the case.

85_Ranger4x4 · Jul 29, 2008

If I was going to build a 2wd rocket, I would grab a 1995+ Explorer 8.8 that has factory discs and leave it with the spring below the axle to help with wheel hop.

I got mine with springs for $100, it is a limited slip with 3.73's... only downside is you want 3.08 and I think 3.27 were as high as they had from the factory.

It would look better than drums through your wheels, would take everything your V-8 could dish out, and most of them had limited slip from the factory. Really the only advantage of the discs over the drums is looks on the light end of a pickup.

Rear brake upgrade...

Black P-38

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