73 Travelall1110 PO front disc brake conversion issues/suggestions.

[Bobby Billy]

Hi all,
I need some help with the front disc brakes on my 1973 Travelall (rear are still drums). The previous owner added (which I believe are) 2WD front disc brakes, but I am facing some issues.
Long story short: the driver's side front disc brake caliper was leaking. I ordered a 1974 rebuilt caliper, but it was too big. After some research, I found out there are 2WD calipers, but I cannot seem to find a rebuilt one. I ordered a rebuild kit, but the inner plunger seal was not correct. When I removed the caliper, I noticed the banjo bolt and the knuckle were either ground down or bent to fit the disc brake caliper (see pics). The brakes worked, and the truck stopped straight. The axle is a Dana 44, and the serial number is correct for a 1973: 603326-1.
My questions are:

1. Which disc brake kit will properly fit my 1973 Travelall with a Dana 44 axle to clean this all up?

1. Can I reuse the knuckle even though it is damaged, or should I replace it? The passenger side is not like this. Hubs are 5x5.5.

1. Do the disc brake conversion kits include the master cylinder and proportioning valve?

Any information, suggestions, or tips are greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

 

[int77345]

im no expert--- but to me that looks like a drum bake master cylinder and booster.

if you have the time and money- i would replace knuckles, master cylinder, booster, and proportion valve. then you will know what you have and not be driving around on someone's "home made weekend brake conversion"

if just replacing the calipers--- have you looked in to 70's ford calipers ? to me it looks like a 70's ford.....

 

[Zaedster]

Wild that I’m trusting my life alongside rigs with brakes held together by prayers.

You are better off swapping the whole axle out for a GM 73-87 Front Dana 44 or 10-Bolt variant. They are already bolt-in, disc brake, and have more caster. They are also cheap.

Those also look like Ford 1978-79 1/2-ton brakes.

 

[Bobby Billy]

Thanks for the info guys, I went ahead and ordered the CPT Disc Brake Conversion kit after talking to the IH Parts America guy. I should get it in a couple of weeks, and I'll let you know how the install goes...

 

[int77345]

awesome !