Add disc brakes to dana 44

[1owner69K5]

I'm new to CK5 and need some info about converting my original 69 Blazer with a Dana 44 front end to disc brakes.

I have been getting conflicting data as to what will fit the existing "c".

 

[Kenny78]

I thought you had to have disc brake knuckles, but I have no first hand with first gens. Half ton knuckles out with the corresponding tie rod from 73 to 91 would be simplest IMO. 10 bolt knuckles will fit and the 77ish to 91 will be more plentiful/cheaper unless you plan to install crossover steering in the future

 

[mr.smartass]

This sounds like one of those projects where you'd come out cheaper swapping in a whole new axle with disc brakes already on it from a newer model truck.

 

[Big Blzn]

I'll have my D44 from my (3.08 R&P) 72 K5 swapped (complete) out of it in about 6 weeks that has disc brakes you can pick up from me for next to nothing if that is the way you want to go. Just let me know. I'm in the O.C.

 

[1owner69K5]

Thanks for the reply. Don't know if you got my other reply, my connection went down just as I was finishing it. Your D44 w/disks sounds like what I need. Please e-mail me or post when you get done. I'm doing a complete restore on mine so no panic. I won't be putting it back together for a few weeks, at best.

 

[JDNobodi]

Well, since you have been helped, I going to post pictures for future reference.

Short answer, you can't use drum brake knuckles for a disk brake swap.

 

[Stomis]

So the only difference is a little clearance in the casting and how the spindle studs are clocked? That really seems like anyone with half a brain could fill a bracket with weld and redrill it with a press, unless I'm missing someone.


And lol at the guy who got a drum brake knuckles drilled and tapped for crossover.

 

[JDNobodi]

And lol at the guy who got a drum brake knuckles drilled and tapped for crossover.

Well, how nice I was to provide you with a source of laughter.flip2off

 

[mr.smartass]

 

[JDNobodi]

Oh it gets worse. We had those knuckle powercoated.
I think we could use those knuckles with a redrilled 3/4 caliper bracket, but right now we have no use for a 3/4 front axle. It is for a project we abandoned.

 

[thatK30guy]

I have a pair of 10 bolt knuckles that work with disc brakes to sell cheap. The passenger side is not a flat-top type. But it will still work for discs.

PM me if interested.

 

[Stomis]

Lol I'm sorry buddy . Try what I said. Clearance the knuckle and fill the bracket with weld. grind it smooth and then drill the holes clocked properly.

 

[JDNobodi]

Lol I'm sorry buddy . Try what I said. Clearance the knuckle and fill the bracket with weld. grind it smooth and then drill the holes clocked properly.

I get the chance I will, right now I have no use for the knuckles.
Clearing the knuckle for 1/2 ton would compromise the integrity of the knuckles. However, 3/4 ton brackets places the caliper away so clearing won't be as bad (I think).