Upgrading an old S-10

[randomize27]

I have an '83 Chevy S-10 that I'm thinking about turning into a project truck.

I need new brakes, a new metering block, and a new master cylinder.

So, as I'm obsessed with Corvettes, I thought, "Why not replace the brakes with a Corvette brake system?" and the trouble began...;help

Now, what I want to do....

First, the most important thing in a car, the brakes. (Starting is optional, stopping is mandatory.)

I want to slap on a ZR-1 brake system. Master cylinder to wheels, all replaced.

(Do you see where this is going yet?)

So, my question is, will this fit my S-10?;shrug

Then, after the brakes are done, I want to redo the suspension.;)

Then the rear axle....:cool

Driveshaft....

Followed by a ZF-6 Transmission....:W

(And if you haven't figured it out yet...:boogie)

Then an LT-5 Crate...:_rock

Then I'll lose my license to speeding tickets....:Steer

But will ZR-1 brakes fit the S-10 lugs, or do I need to replace those, the rims, tires, etc.?

I know I'll need to redo the brake caliper mounts...

This will be a piecemeal upgrade, as I don't have a lot of money.

And, between finishing this project, and the time I lose my license, a nice little LT-5 badge under the right rear taillight, just to make people wonder...

[Mac]

The other afternoon, I was following a Smart Car with a HEMI 5.7 lt tag. I didn't wonder... I laughed!! :L

From the sound of where you're going (eventually) I wouldn't be doing the brakes first. I would look at the suspension first since what you choose to do will affect your decision on the brakes.

-Mac

[randomize27]

Okay, I ig-ner-ant.

I understand Suspension is what keeps the tires in contact with the road, but much beyond that, I'm not sure what the details are.

I figured, first, be able to stop, then maneuver, then go.

I just figured, start with the brakes, and work my way forward.

So...

In terms a moron can understand, ie, me, why should I do the suspension before the brakes?

I'm going to have to replace the metering block, master cylinder, and probably the rotors anyway...

[Mac]

In the simplest terms, the brake rotors go onto the suspension. If you change the rotors first, those rotors must fit your old suspension... and might not fit your new suspension. Compatibility of parts isn't guaranteed ever!!

Here's a link for you which provide plenty of info, although not specifically to your envisioned application. Scroll down to the Under The Hood Library at the bottom of the page and there's a list of pretty much everything you could ever ask about cars (or trucks). Click!! (http://auto.howstuffworks.com/under-the-hood-channel.htm)

-Mac

[SPANISHVETTS]

http://corvetteactioncenter.com/gallery/data/500/medium/5541ProMatic.jpg
http://corvetteactioncenter.com/gallery/data/500/medium/5541S10_motor.jpg
Remember my S-10 project?
I used the heavy duty suspension and brakes that were RPO with the Towing package and slotted rotors from Summit. The SBC weighs more than the rest of the truck combined. I never had any braking issues.

The only bad part of the conversion was the Hooker headers. Total junk and badly designed.

This S-10 was 1 fun ride. I am planing on doing another one soon with a L-98; it is almost 2008 time for fuel injection.

[DarkShark]

This S-10 was 1 fun ride. I am planing on doing another one soon with a L-98; it is almost 2008 time for fuel injection.

Let me know when you want to get started. I have LOTS of pictures, receipts, and helpful tid bits from my swap.

[DarkShark]

I have an '83 Chevy S-10 that I'm thinking about turning into a project truck....

http://www.s10wildside.com/wildside/default.htm

There's a neat ride. AWD, a 355 SBC, and a custom LT1 intake.

[ricersvette89]

Wish my Dad kept his 85 S-10 Regular Cab V-6. Tons of fun to fix it up.

[randomize27]

Hmph....apparently the computer swallowed a post...:eyerole

Now, if I could remember what I said...

Thanks for the info Mac, and that's a great site.:upthumbs

I think I'll just do the brakes normally, and save up for the suspension first.

Although, that much of a suspension will seem silly for the amount of power I have now....

Glad I stopped here, though, first. Before going to the parts store, or the Corvette scrapyard I know about....

[gmjunkie]

Remember my S-10 project?


The only bad part of the conversion was the Hooker headers. Total junk and badly designed.

:boogie:boogie:boogie Total junk?????:rotfl:rotfl You will never catch me with a set of Hooker Headers!!!! :beer Maybe with a Couple Hookers!!!!;LOL;LOL;LOL:D:D:D

[Edmond]

I guess it'd be easier to start with a suspension and find easily compatible brake components than vice versa?

Then again, I think a ZR-1 brake system might be over kill, don't you think?

[randomize27]

For now, ZR-1 brakes are overkill, but when it comes to stopping safely, there ain't no such critter.

But when I get that LT-5 crate dropped in....:D

[catbert]

When I had my S10 SS I belonged to an S10 forum. There is NOTHING you could do that those guys haven't already done. Look em up.