kylenautique
I'm Awesome
I've read that you don't have to change the ABS out to make the disc brakes work properly. That being said, I deleted my ABS due to the proportioning valve failing before I did this install. Its real fun driving on the freeway, pressing the brake pedal, firm pedal, and you don't really stop. The whole ABS system went in the garbage. I'm using a Wilwood adjustable proportioning valve on my rear brakes which allows for 100-1200 PSI I believe. When I still had the drums, I ran it at almost the lowest setting. Any more and they would lock up under heavy breaking. If I was towing/hauling, I would increase the pressure a little bit. When I went to disc brakes, I run the valve at full allowed pressure. The braking is better and smoother. They don't lock up very easy and yes, I can stop faster and safer. If they get wet, they still function... I could try a higher pressure valve, but I don't really feel the need. 1200 PSI works great.Out of curiosity, did you actually go out to an empty road and mark your braking distances before and after? Did you nab the disc brake proportioning valve along with everything else? My guess is that your drum brakes weren't adjusted properly and your disc brakes - which are barely functional with a drum brake proportioning valve, aren't that much better, but the truck drives nice and you don't have all that extra play in the pedal any more.
Discs need more pressure and volume. If it were simply a question of more pressure or more volume you could change the master cylinder to caliper ratio and get the right pressure. But discs need both pressure and volume, and that's why brake power boosters became standard when cars went to disc brakes.
All the above said, I prefer disc brakes. I just don't like throwing out drum brakes for boy-racer disc brake kits or incomplete upgrades.
I'm also using a 1 ton hydroboost system and 1 ton calipers. My truck has pretty awesome brakes. The NBS brake system is IMO, the best swap for disc brakes on these trucks. It keeps everything simple to replace, and gives you a stock GM silverado parking brake. All replacement parts are from a 99-2003 Silverado 1500, which will always be available at any parts store.
The reason I did the install was because I was having an issue with my left drum constantly locking up. After diagnosis, I found that I had a warped backing plate causing the issue. Since I had to remove the axles to replace it, this was a great time to do the install. I'm not a huge fan of drum brakes. I know how to properly install them and adjust them. I just don't enjoy messing with the springs, and if they get wet they become useless. Plus, they fade a lot easier due to heat from heavy braking. With the disc brake install, its not a HOLY SH*T braking upgrade difference. But, its smoother, they don't fade as easy under heavy braking, and they are so much easier to service.
The NBS install is the way to go. It looks factory and functions great.

Wilwood Knob Style Proportioning Valves
Wilwood Knob Style Proportioning Valves

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