Edbert said:
I understand the reasons for using a granada rear axle and it's disc brakes, but what is the argument for using granada front brakes?
They don't seem to be any better than the vintage ones which at least were 4-piston units. Is it just a price thing?
I'd say that the advantages of the Granada system over the original system are:
Compared to 65-67
1. The spindles and pin are more massive than the original.
2. The spindle and caliper bracket were designed together as a disc brake system vs. the after thought caliper bracket on the drum designed spindle use in 65-67.
3. The 45 year old designed 4 piston originals require a lot of maintenance. They were/are great for track use were they will be regularly maintained.
4. The large single piston Granada caliper is very reliable. Ford made probably 10 million of these calipers and had no problems that I know of.
5. All of the associated parts, especially calipers, are much less expensive than any of the 65-73 Mustang disc brake parts.
Compared to 68-73
1. The spindle is stronger than the 68-69, is the same, in fact identical to the 70-73 except for the size of the tie rod mounting hole and the caliper bracket mounting hole.
2. The Granada has a larger caliper piston than the 68-73.
3. Granada system parts, including calipers, hoses, tie rods, and small parts are MUCH less expensive.
I'd say that the disadvantages to the Granada system are:
Compared to 65-67
1. The spindles need to be replaced. This is offset by the fact that removing the spindles facilitates
suspension maintenance, and the fact that the spindles are an upgrade in strength.
2. They are not 65-67 original.
3. They wheels will probably need to be upgraded to later model Ford standard disc brake 14" steel wheels, or aftermarket wheels.
4. The steering arm geometry is slighty different than the original (about 0.4"). I will be soon offering a 65-66 model specific Granada spindle.
Compared to 68-73
1. None.
My opinion, for what it's worth!
http://www.discbrakeswap.com