Question: I want to do a brake conversion on my 1968 CJ5. I’d like to ditch the old front drums and install discs. What’s my options? Jim Funk
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Answer: Great question with a couple of options. The pre-72 CJ’s used a Dana 25/27 front axle which was equipped with the closed knuckle u-joints. OPTION: Swapping a Dana 30 (with factory discs) from a 76-81 CJ would be a bolt-in only requiring a few changes. Namely steering linkages, brake lines (they will need changes anyway), and potential gear ratio difference. OPTION: Install a front disc setup from a 76-77 CJ using the 1-1/8″ rotors (in late 77 and 78 it was changed to the 1-7/8″ rotor. The above years used a caliper mount that installed on the outside of the 6 bolt spindle. I won’t describe the exact procedure here but the spindle needs to be removed, longer bolts need to be added to facilitate the caliper mount on top of the spindle, and the brake lines need to be altered. OTHERS: I have seen several sites out there that list ways of adapting 70’s GM truck brakes to the Dana 25/27. I have never been a fan of “making stuff work” when it comes to brakes. MASTER CYLINDER: The 67-71 Jeeps used a dual circuit master cylinder, others out there indicate that the 10lb pressure valve needs to be removed or the front brakes will drag. A 2lb should be installed to not allow too much fluid to return.
