Wilwood Brakes/Springs

I called them today to see if they had any brakes that would fit my original drum 65 Skylark. They said that the earliest Skylark they had brakes for was a 75. I then asked if he knew if those for a Chevelle, LeMans, etc. would fit and he said his notes did not say they would.

I know a lot of the A bodies are interchangable, does anyone know if the spindles for a Skylark and Chevelle are the same in 65?

Has anyone used Wilwoods on their 65?

Two of my friends use Wilwoods and really like them so it looks like they are the way I am going but I am open to other suggestions.

I am also replacing the springs all around and was looking into Eibach, Hotchkis, Edelbrock, and Intrax. I am not looking for a cornering machine, I am looking to lower the stance a bit (1 - 1.5" max) and get the car launching.

I guess I am looking to see if anyone has experience with any of these springs or any other suggestions. Thanks!...Joe

 

I have them on my 64 using the stock drum spindles. You have to drill and tap one hole in the spindle to a larger size. That's it!

 

As I've said about 10,000 times since 2003, I had Hotchkis springs on my '70 Skylark and absolutely loved them. They rode nice (stiff, but not harsh by any means) with KYB Gas-A-Just shocks, and since the rear spring is very close to stock rate, the car launched as well as a 2bbl with a 2.xx open rear end can. It definitely launched better than with worn out stock springs and air shocks. From what I've been hearing the Eibachs are not a high enough spring rate and sag beyond their normal lowering height. Global West springs are supposed to be fairly nice. You might want to check out some of the Chevelle forums for more spring information.

As far as the Hotchkis springs (or any really, I would imagine), you'll probably need to cut an inch (roughly 1 coil) off in order to get the ride height you will desire... they tend to not sag as much with the Buick engines since they are considerably lighter than the Chevy/Olds/Pontiac small blocks.

As far as the brakes, I think Adam already answered the question.

 

Adam, Can you let me know what part # your brakes are? This is definitely encouraging news.

Eric, thanks for the input!....Joe

 

Yes Please!

Looking forward to hearing what is needed to put some real braking power on these ole classics. Manual 4-wheel drum can be :eek2: at speed. I've got a real interest in doing this changeover too.

So many of these companys have no clue what their products will fit :spank:

 

I can't find the receipt..but this is who I got it from and I'm pretty sure it is the same kit. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Wilw...047511999QQcategoryZ33564QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

He even included braided brake lines and an adjustable proportioning valve.

 

Gonna get me some of that.

THANK YOU Adam. That is an upgrade worth the money :beer

 

No problem at all.

After almost hitting a deer using the fade-master drum brakes, I figured the discs were a cheap investment. Then comparing the time and cost to gather all of the factory parts for a swap, and the Wilwoods seemed really cheap. Be aware the 12.2's won't clear all 15" wheels. They did clear my centerlines, and also my factory 67 disc brake ralley wheels.

 

Thanks Adam!