Simple Disc conversion questions

[Joshpow]

I am getting ready to go for it guys. I got a 77 front suspension for the 72, so now I am going to put it in. For the ones who have already done it, Are the track widths different between the two suspension setups? Also, are progressive rate or standard rate springs better for my truck? I want a stable ride, even if it is a little bumpy. I also plan to lower it by hacking a coil or two. If I don't move any of the tierod adjustments, shouldn't the frontend be in close enough alignment to drive? It was when I took it out of the other truck. Thanks guys.

[69bumptruck]

I am getting ready to go for it guys. I got a 77 front suspension for the 72, so now I am going to put it in. For the ones who have already done it, Are the track widths different between the two suspension setups? Also, are progressive rate or standard rate springs better for my truck? I want a stable ride, even if it is a little bumpy. I also plan to lower it by hacking a coil or two. If I don't move any of the tierod adjustments, shouldn't the frontend be in close enough alignment to drive? It was when I took it out of the other truck. Thanks guys.

I believe the track widths are the same in the front, the difference in a dentside is the rearend. Not sure about springs. You do need to use the ones from the '77 if you're using all the other front end stuff from it. Cutting the coils will cause you issues. You will need the I-beams bent to fix the chamber problem with the tires. Tie rods only set the toe adjustment. If you drive it without getting the beams fixed, you will eat your tires up in no time! (wear will be on the inside, because your tires will slant inwards)

[Banjo]

about the only "gotcha" popping in my middle aged failing memory as I read this is, I'm not so sure you won't have to use the arm coming off the 77 steering box in case you didn't grab it, you might want to. Is it called pitman arm? Again, the tech tutorials posted on this cite go into that and I may be dreaming that up.

[Joshpow]

I got the pitman arm removes and installed on the draglink already. I appreciate the input, and no, your mind isn't failing. It all has to do with the year model of the truck you are putting it on. My 72 is supposed to have the same arm, but I plan to be safe, not sorry. I appreciate the info guys.

[fordman]

the radius arms are the same length so the track width should be the same. the pitman arm is the same. as long as you dont mess with the tie rod adjustment it should drive fine. but a alignment would probably be best to make sure when you are done.

[Joshpow]

Cool. I was just wanting to make sure it would be close enough to drive to get it aligned.

[iamthewreckingcrew]

I aligned mine (set toe in) myself. Got the specs out of my Chilton manual and grabbed a couple tools and a tape measure. Easy enough. As far as I know, that's the only part of an alignment a guy can really do on these things without bending the I Beams.

I used a 77 for my donor too. Track width was the same. I did use the 77 i beams, but used the 68 radius arms and steering linkage. Haven't changed to power steering yet.

[Joshpow]

Thanks alot guys.

[faxon7]

Hi all, I have the same conversion going on, front end off '77 onto a '72.
If I'm reading correctly, and I use all the front end parts off the '77 (I-beams, steering linkage, spindle, springs?) then there shouldn't be any kingpin removal/install required? Unless looking for a "new steering" feel right?
Nice to have all the wisdom and help here, thanks.

Josh

Ohio

[FORDification]

That's correct, all pieces will bolt right up. You will have to fabricate some new brake lines when you add the disc brake proportioning valve, and don't forget you'll need a disc-brake master cylinder too. The drum-brake piece won't work.

[faxon7]

That's right, got the booster and master cylinder from the '77 donor.
Still figuring out how the '72 brake pedal will hook up to the '77 booster. Would the '77 linkage connect down to the '72 support bracket?
Josh

[FORDification]

That depends on whether your donor vehicle is an early-'77 or a late-'77. There was a mid-year change in hardware, and so late'77 thru '79 boosters might not work. Check out this thread:

http://fordification.com/forum/viewtopi ... =5&t=38627

[70shortwide]

k guys, ive been looking around a good bit and cant find what im looking for. this topic had the most relavent statement.
when doing this swap, what brake lines do i need going to the wheels? 77? or do i need to make some?

[fordman]

the brake lines should match the discs that yuo are putting on it. don't forget the frame brackets that come from the donor truck.

[70shortwide]

cool. pretty sure ive got everything now.