Newbie

[BITESIZE]

I am going to apologize up front but I just got a 72' 40 and plan on doing a ground up restoration. Im sure I will be asking alot of questions along the way so please bare with me. My first few questions- Can I convert the drum brakes to disc brakes? I want to run 32" tires can I get by with just adding larger shackles. I want the car to look stock but have slightly larger tires. Last question for now.. I need doors and a hardtop, do thry have to be from a 72 or can any work with slight modification. Thanks again for the help. I will post pics once I start

 

[alkarich]

Welcome to mud. When you are able post pics. As for the disc conversion check out the faq section, lots of good info. What might be the easiest is to swap a later axle in. That is you can find one nearby. Also where are you located.

Tops are interchangeable to a certain degree. Later years have the ambulance doors which will require some mods to your tub. Another topic covered here on mud. Start doing some searches. You'll get lots of good info.

As for tires 31's can be run stock. Probably 32's as well. Longer shackles in rear with add-a-laefs is an inexpensive way to go.

 

[BITESIZE]

Thanks, I am located in Pawleys Island, SC. I just found this site and have been reading non stop. This site is great and hopefully I will get to a point where I can contribute.

 

[Robert LaDuke]

Depending on the condition of your springs you can run larger diameter tires without rubbing and without a longer shackle. Just as long as they are tall skinnies... like a 9.5" . I have 9.5x 33's on mine and it is fine. I added a slightly longer shackle just to give me a little more room but I ran it with the stock shackles for a few years without a problem. If you are planning on doing any serious offroading at some point you might want to look into a lift.

 

[allan man]

Welcome! FAQ is your best friend...



https://forum.ih8mud.com/40-55-seri...t-axle-disc-brake-conversion-dummies-faq.html

 

[pappy]

I'm also going to recommend the Technical Links section here at MUD. After I bought my 1969 I lived in that section for a long time.

 

[CruisinMT]

I run 33 x 9.5 tires on stock springs with 1.5" over stock shackles and AAL's in the rear. I haven't rubbed yet. If you go any wider you run the risk of mushing your fenders when wheeling.