Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Wow, so this is a bolt on kit ($105) that has the option of coming with a modified Altima vented rotor ($220), then user supplied volvo caliper for a vented rotor (cost?)? That's awesome! Any modifications required to the volvo caliper, like converting it to a single brake line? Just trying to summarize what you have created. If the volvo requires modifications or additional parts it might be an improved selling point if you provided that mod as well, or instructions on how to do it, etc.

As an owner who has had both stock and modified (Toyota/Maxima) brakes, I can attest to how much better your brakes will be at the bottom of a fast run down Mt Shasta. This is an exciting and needed improvement to our cars.

Well done to all of you who have contributed to this effort.

Nice summary.

Volvo calipers are about $52ea on RA(rockauto). The mounting holes need to be opened up to 1/2".

Actually...all of that has been covered in this thread. At least one, possibly two guy are working on a very concise write up that will put all the info in one place like you want. I will either use that write up on my site(it will be here first) or I'll do something similar as I have time. I'm hesitant to spend a ton of time in writing up more until I get a better idea of response.

Sorry, I don't have any intentions(at this time) of providing the manifold for the calipers. I am considering doing a "how-to" on drilling the calipers. The one write up I found online didn't seem that clear. Does someone have a link to a really nice, clear write up? If I do one, I'll buy a set of calipers, take vids and pics of the mod, then most likely sell the calipers off to someone that can used them. My understanding is that the mod is simple enough to do with a hand drill. This is a hobby for me....I don't have corporate protection. Cutting the hole open in the rotor is a pretty simple, safe mod that shouldn't really have any affect on the integrity of the rotor. If I start modifying calipers and I miss a tiny piece of debris and someone can't stop.....you get the idea. Plus....what happens when there's a factory flaw that is unnoticeable until put into use.....with the rotor modified, there's no returning it. Just some concerns I have. Maybe one of these days I'll be able to incorporate, but that overhead has to get paid somehow. I'm only working with Datsuns and trying to help the guys in the middle and lower tax brackets. I'm not excluding guys with lots of money, but they already have a $1500 big brake option. lol

There may be a 3rd option to have drilled/slotted rotors for those guys that are really running their rigs hard, but that will be a "build to order" deal. $275 (+25 shipping) using the rotors in the link on pg5? I haven't ordered from them, so I have no clue how long they take or just what the quality of the rotors are. Hopefully, someone on here can vouch for their quality.

I'd also like to personally thank everyone that has contributed to this thread!! You've been a great help and inspiration. After I finished Shifty's, I really thought about just dropping it.

http://www.jcna.com/library/tech/tech0031b.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

here is a link to dave kerrs crossdrilling mod on the volvo calipers

this should be added to the wiki as it is not easy to find

Awesome! That's exactly what I was hoping for! I think maybe Shifty sent me that one before, but I couldn't find it again. I don't see how I could improve much on that.....I certainly won't be in any hurry to try

I hear you on the liability issue! When I figured out my brake mod I took it to a local shop and asked if they could mod the caliper mount. "Nope, it's brakes... too much liability." So I had to do it myself with a friends help (I don't know how to weld). Glad to hear it will all be documented... again, great job everyone! When I wear out my Maxima discs maybe I will convert to this...

fixitman04 wrote:http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/raframecatalog.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
so 17428 and 17429 are the correct ones? are they really left and right?

ok these just arrived... just for every-bodies reference.... they do not have a machined surface for the banjo bolt crush washers to seal against...rough casting, not machined... so be prepared to do a little work to them or convert them to single line as i plan to

I just looked at the pics in that link you sent.....the last pic...you can see that they're not machined...I assumed they were too. Didn't volvo use copper washers too or is there a tapered seat in the bottom of the hole? ...hhmmm...they'd still need to seal the top of the hole. So, how does the manifold seal? The copper washers just "absorb" the texture?

some are machined, and use two banjo bolt hoses, others direct hoses. mine have a bevel at the bottom for what looks like a bubble flare. i will just have to machine the casting flat if i want to use a banjo

I guess we need to figure out just which caliper has the machined surfaces, then change all the suggested part info on here. I'm kinda odd man out on the calipers....just going off what I've been told.... '85 245 Volvo. I'm guessing we need to narrow that down a bit more.

i dont see it as much of an issue.. square it up in a drill press and hit it with a fine flat stone... its not that coarse of a casting..

from what i can find on it it is hit and miss. some will be machined in a group of calipers and some wont...all with the same part #

I guess I should put up a for sale thread....maybe ebay?

Couple of pics while I'm here.

Measurements I came up with on the flanged bolts.






Here's the basic kit.... $105 shipped(no rotors)




I have 4 extra sets of caliper spacers on hand. $15/set(shipped)....not sure why you'd want a set unless you have a lathe and are making your own spacers. I've certainly put enough info out there for someone to do that.

mklotz70 wrote:
I have 4 extra sets of caliper spacers on hand. $15/set(shipped)....not sure why you'd want a set unless you have a lathe and are making your own spacers. I've certainly put enough info out there for someone to do that.

Mike,
Everyone who has a Girling conversion, with or without vented brakes could use a pair of these spacers.

I made mine years ago out ~1/8 ALUMINUM or I would be first in-line. It's a pain to change pads without them...

Cool. Thanks! I wasn't sure what thickness was used previously. I may add them to my site too then.

2 kits with rotors left