|
|
The brake system is critical to the safe & functional operation of your car. When dealing with any older car, this system should be thouroghly inspected and maintained. This article will identify and explain some of the different aspects of the brake system on the Camaro. Two different brake systems where available; Manual brakes were standard, with power assist brakes (RPO J50) being optional. Power brakes became standard equipment in 1976. The power brake option was included with the Super Sport & Z28 option as standard equipment. All Camaros came with front disc and rear drum brakes. Rear disc brakes were not offered on the Camaro (they were available, and are often swapped from late 70's Trans Ams with WS6). The Brake system uses a dual circuit hydraulic system with warning light and self-adjusting features. Metering and proportioning valves provide balance between front and rear wheels.
|
|
Brake System Restoration
Inspection - Tips/hints....
Jump to Related:
Brake FAQ |
12 inch brake swap |
Pedals |
High Performance Considerations
Exploded views:
Typical Brake System |
Parking Brake System
Technical Description (1974)
All Camaros came with front disc and rear drum brakes. Rear disc brakes were not offered on the
Camaro (they were available, and are often swapped from late 70's Trans Ams with WS6).
Manual brakes were standard (up until 1976), with power assist brakes being optional.
The Brake system uses a dual circuit hydraulic system with warning light and self-adjusting
features. Metering and proportioning valves provide balance between front and rear wheels.
The front brakes are a 11" cast iron vented rotor using a single piston floating caliper. Piston diameter is 2.94", total swept area is 217.9 square inches.
The rear brakes are a 9.5 x 2" drum. Effective area is 66.58 square inches. Swept area is 119.4 square inches. Piston diameter is .875" (.938 after 1975).
Master cylinder diameter is 1".
Piston travel is 1.416" (manual) or 1.342 (power).
Pedal travel is 7.5" (manual) 5.26" (power).
Pedal ratio is 5.36:1 (manual) and 3.52:1 (power).
Line pressure is 550 (manual) or 900 (power) PSI at 100# pedal load.
Mechanical parking brake is cable activated via foot pedal, locking rear brakes.
Component usage & identification
| Year | Component Type | Part # | Code/Comments |
| 1970 - 1974 | Master Cylinder (manual brakes) | ||
| 1975 | Master Cylinder (manual brakes) | ||
| 1976 - 1980 | Master Cylinder (manual brakes) | ||
| 1970 - 1980 | Master Cylinder (power) | 0884, 1344, 2231655, BE | |
| 1981 | Master Cylinder (power) | Plastic housing | |
| 1970 - 1972 | Brake rotor | ||
| 1973 - 1978 | Brake rotor | ||
| 1979 - 1981 | Brake rotor | metric lugs | |
| 1970 - 1974 | Brake Drum (smooth) | ||
| 1970 - 1981 | Brake Drum (finned) | ||
| 1970 - 1976 | Caliper | ||
| 1977 | Caliper | ||
| 1978 | Caliper | ||
| 1979 - 1980 | Caliper | ||
| 1981 | Caliper |
All years use 11" rotor. All use 5 stud on 4 3/4 bolt pattern.
Calipers from 1970 to 1980 interchange by obtaining the correct hose, bracket and using proper attaching bolts. Otherwise observe above interchange grouping.
Last updated: 11/4/2006
All rights reserved |
