|
This started out as a relatively simple swap. I got a really good deal on a BAER Track system and was given a set of Belltech drop spindles for Xmas. The plan was to buy a front suspension rebuild kit from PST, pick up some new springs and convert the drop spindles to accept the BAER setup.
Well. The first problem I ran into was that the new brakes didn't fit in my stock 16" rims. I had heard rumors that it was close and that you could shave a little from the caliper to make it work. That was NOT going to happen. The only way to sure this issue was to buy some 17" rims. I ended up finding 1 new one on ebay and bought the rest from www.aaarims.com.
After quite a bit of cutting and filing, and some VERY careful drilling and tapping of holes the drop spindles were finally ready to go. Next came the task of removing the a-arms to replace the bushings, ball joints and springs. I must say, removing the springs was a little scary but nothing in comparison to installing the new ones. Unfortunately I lost the few pictures I did take of the modifications
|
|
Trial fit with the new rim.
The downside to using rims of this width is that you need a 1.75" adaptor/spacer to have them fit. In the pic I didn't have the adaptor yet so the caliper is nice and close to the spokes.
Once the adaptor is added you can't really notice the huge rotors. In a way thats a good thing but it would be nice.
|
BAER spindle
If you have seen a normal run-of-the-mill f-body spindle, this one is quite different. BAER basicly take the stock spindle, lop the "ears" off, drill and tap 2 holes, and mill the caliper mounting surface. They are pretty much EXACTLY the same as 1LE spindles!! The only reservation I have in telling you that they are exaclty the same the the distance from the top of the spindle down to the caliper cage mounting bracket. I know that the hub on the Track system is .400" further out. Even if this is an issue, it is nothing that a washer won't be able to fix... with no ill effects. |
|
|
|
Modified and unmodified spindles
As you can see there is quite a difference between the 2 spindles. The one in the back is the stock non 1LE spindle. The front spindle has had the ears lopped off and the two bolts holes needed to be enlarged for the much larger bolts on the right.
|
Enlarged bolt holes
This is a much better shot of the two holes that need to be modified. These holes need to be drilled damn near PERFECT. If you don't have a GOOD drill press and an assortment of clamps I suggest you take it to a machine shop. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
