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Topic: larger rotors with the TC rear end? (Read 1373 times) previous topic - next topic

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

I've not seen this exact question before so I thought I would ask.  I'm doing the rear axle swap from my LX 7.5 rear end to the 8.8 TC rear end.  Both are 1988 models.  I read the thread about trying to keep drum brakes but that seems more complicated to me than retaining the rear discs (that come with the TC).  Those rear discs are pathetically small  -- are there options for upgrading them?  I was planning on keeping the 4 lug set up but may be open to 5 lug if I have to. 

thanks!
'88 Bird 5.0, TW 170s, HO cam, Scorpion rockers, Explorer intake 70mm TB/EGR, MAF conversion, 24# injectors, 8.8 3.73 disc rear end swap, console swap, leather seats, 11" front discs, 15-1 rack, TC springs all around, x-pipe, BBK headers,  welded sub-frame, unlocked digital speedo.

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #1 –
What are your plans for the car?  Are you also planning on upgrading the fronts discs?  Are you putting an adjustable brake proportioning valve in or adding ABS (like the factory TEVES) so you don't skid under panic stops?

If you don't race, then the small rear discs from the TC are probably more than adequate, and you can spend your money on upgrades elsewhere.  The typical figures thrown about is around 70%-90% of the braking is done by the front brakes, so they don't require as much swept area to help stop the car.  Unless, of course, like 'Mater, you race backwards. :D

FWIW, my TC discs work fine, but I don't race the car...  I am, however, enamored with commas. ;)

Daniel

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #2 –
Nope,  not going to race.  I have the stock 5.0 SO and I'm dumbfounded by the money some of these guys put into the engines.  $600 for aluminum heads, fancy intakes etc...  I would love to as well but my wife would kill me.  I just completed the 11" front disc upgrade.    But you bring up a great question.  Can the TC ABS be ported to my LX? Is that a reasonably easy task and worth the effort?  The braking system in the TC looks intimidating (viewing the area around the MC) compared to my LX.
'88 Bird 5.0, TW 170s, HO cam, Scorpion rockers, Explorer intake 70mm TB/EGR, MAF conversion, 24# injectors, 8.8 3.73 disc rear end swap, console swap, leather seats, 11" front discs, 15-1 rack, TC springs all around, x-pipe, BBK headers,  welded sub-frame, unlocked digital speedo.

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #3 –
The TC ABS has always been pr0ne to problems, and many remove it and swap to a more conventional setup with a traditional master cylinder after it starts giving problems.  Some replacement parts are difficult/expensive to come by for it.  I don't think it would be worthwhile. 

The SVO master cylinder (84-86 Mustang SVO) or 1993 Cobra master cylinder or even SN-95 ones have been used.  You may need to add some sort of proportioning valve on (simple) and practice panic stops in an empty lot to adjust the bias to the point at which the rear wheels lock up.  For master cylinders, you may benefit from a search on here and on NATO--there's a lot of info out there.  It's not complicated or especially difficult, but since your life depends on the brakes you don't want to skimp on parts or installation.

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #4 –
Good to know. Thanks.  My plan then is just to use the stock 1988 LX MC and find a variable proportioning valve or maybe just use the one from the TC.  According to CoolCats that's supposed to work.
'88 Bird 5.0, TW 170s, HO cam, Scorpion rockers, Explorer intake 70mm TB/EGR, MAF conversion, 24# injectors, 8.8 3.73 disc rear end swap, console swap, leather seats, 11" front discs, 15-1 rack, TC springs all around, x-pipe, BBK headers,  welded sub-frame, unlocked digital speedo.

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #5 –
Actually the rotors on the coupe are adequate for a street car of moderate HP. What i would suggest is rebuild the brake system including the calipers. Also use the solid 4 lug rotors instead of the composite ones and do not forget to install longer studs in the stock axles do my brake bracket mod and use the emergency brake cable on the drivers side only. This will require my emergency brake mod as well. Ditch the ABS the system sucks anyway even when working properly and install a manual adjustable valve on the rear circuit. Or do this mod. Convert to 5 lug and use LSC rotors they are much bigger than the TC ones. And fab these adapters and have a real good brake system along with COBRA fronts. Good luck

Below is a LSC rotor with my home made brackets and stock TC calipers. This makes the conversion real simple and cheap. Or usr the entire LSC rear disc components. 




I spend money I don't have, To build  cars I don't need, To impress people I don't know

HAVE YOU DRIVEN A FORD LATELY!!

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #6 –
Wow. very cool.  I'll see if I can find your write up on those mods.  I don't exactly have a machine shop so I'm not sure I can fabricate those brackets but that looks pretty spiffy.  Thanks for the reply Tom.
'88 Bird 5.0, TW 170s, HO cam, Scorpion rockers, Explorer intake 70mm TB/EGR, MAF conversion, 24# injectors, 8.8 3.73 disc rear end swap, console swap, leather seats, 11" front discs, 15-1 rack, TC springs all around, x-pipe, BBK headers,  welded sub-frame, unlocked digital speedo.
 

larger rotors with the TC rear end?

Reply #7 –
My pleasure!!
I spend money I don't have, To build  cars I don't need, To impress people I don't know

HAVE YOU DRIVEN A FORD LATELY!!