[BonzoHansen]

I’m not sold on the perfect rear disc setup for these cars w/15s. It’s the staggered shocks that seem to cause issues. Nothing is a true bolt-on.

* Late 2nd gen TA setups can work pretty good, but those calipers are often problematic (very similar to, maybe same as, the iron ones in 3rd gens). You have to use the e-brake all the time or they go bad fast. I actually have a whole late 2nd gen TA rear disc setup in the garage, still might resell it or use it in the 67. I retrofit an 85 TA rear & discs into my 82 without issue and it did stop way better, so I know they can be made to work well. But fighting those calipers is a PITA.

* The late 3rd / early 4th gen (LT1 cars, I’m told LS1 setups are too large for 15s) aluminum caliper setups can be made to work, but the staggered issues show up (and it can’t be from a 9-bolt). I think they use integral e-brakes. I’ve also seen attempts at using rear setups out of late model s10s & trailblazers. But the same issues come up with that, and a lot of people seem to think the shoe in hat e-brakes do not hold well. I have a 4 speed and my driveway is a hill, so I need a good e-brake. Same goes for many of the supposed bolt-on aftermarket kits. I think they only verify the kits fit the rears, not the actual cars.

And none of that gets into proper selection of master cyl & prop valves – it is all **** if the MC & PV are wrong. Plus if you use late model parts, then you get into line problems (bubble flares, etc.). Not insurmountable, just an added PITA. And your tires are still the limiting factors.

I plan full boat big brakes/tires/wheels someday, after the 67 is running most likely. Until then, I did the 12” upgrade in the front with Porterfield pads, and I am doing a complete rebuild of the rear drums, using Porterfield shoes. I kind of think she’ll stop pretty good. I couldn’t see buying a bunch of parts for small rear discs if I plan on replacing it all at a later date. I’d rather save for a 5-speed. Plus the LSx for the 67 won’t buy itself.