Big Brake Kits
Take braking performance beyond a factory-style setup with big brake kits designed for classic cars, muscle cars, and trucks. Explore larger rotor systems, performance calipers, and front and rear disc brake upgrades for popular GM, Ford, and Mopar applications.
More Braking Control for Classic Cars, Trucks & Builds!
Building a classic for more power, larger wheels, or modern driving often means looking beyond the original braking system. Big brake kits bring larger rotors and performance calipers into the equation, helping create a braking setup better suited to the demands of a modified classic.
Performance Online offers big brake kits for a wide range of classic cars and trucks, including popular Chevy, Pontiac, Ford, Dodge, Plymouth, Chrysler, and other applications. The collection includes front and rear systems with rotor sizes ranging from 12 inches to 13 inches and beyond, along with options from Performance Online, Wilwood, and Baer.
Different builds call for different brake configurations. Some kits pair larger rotors with drop spindles, while others work with specific factory or aftermarket rear ends. Rear disc systems are also available with different caliper mounting positions and parking brake configurations. This makes it possible to choose a setup around the vehicle instead of trying to adapt a universal braking package.
Wheel fitment, spindle or axle type, caliper clearance, master cylinder sizing, and front-to-rear brake balance should all be considered when planning an upgrade. Matching these components correctly helps the entire braking system work together and gives your classic more predictable performance when it matters.
FAQ
How do I choose the right big brake kit for my classic car or truck?
Start with your vehicle year, make, and model, then check the existing spindle or rear-end configuration. You should also consider wheel size and clearance, rotor diameter, caliper configuration, and whether the vehicle uses manual or power brakes. Some kits work with factory components, while others use drop spindles or require a specific axle or rear-end setup. Always compare the product fitment requirements with your vehicle before ordering.
What size big brake kit do I need?
The right size depends on your vehicle, wheels, driving style, and braking setup. This collection includes systems with 12-inch, 12.19-inch, and 13-inch rotors, along with different caliper configurations. Larger rotors can provide greater braking leverage and improved heat management, but they also require sufficient wheel and caliper clearance. Bigger is not automatically better if the rest of the braking system is not properly matched.
Will a 12-inch or 13-inch big brake kit fit my wheels?
Wheel diameter alone does not guarantee that a big brake kit will fit. Caliper size, spoke design, wheel offset, and inner barrel shape can all affect clearance. A wheel may be large enough in diameter but still contact the caliper. Check the minimum wheel requirements for the specific kit and use a wheel-clearance template when one is available.
Should I upgrade the front brakes, rear brakes, or both?
The best choice depends on your current braking system and how the vehicle is used. Front brakes handle a large share of the braking load, so many builds begin with a front upgrade. Rear big brake kits can help complete a four-wheel disc setup. When upgrading either axle, consider front-to-rear brake balance, proportioning, master cylinder compatibility, and the components already installed on the other axle.
How do I know if a rear big brake kit will fit my rear end?
Identify the rear-end and axle configuration before choosing a kit. Products in this collection include applications for Ford 9-inch rear ends, GM 10- and 12-bolt rear ends, and vehicle-specific original rear ends. Axle flange, housing type, caliper mounting position, shock location, bolt pattern, and parking brake requirements can affect fitment. Do not select a rear kit based only on the vehicle model without confirming the rear end currently installed.
Will I need to change my master cylinder or proportioning valve?
It depends on the big brake kit and your existing braking system. Caliper piston size and configuration affect the amount of brake fluid required, so some upgrades may work best with a different master cylinder bore. Converting rear drums to discs can also change proportioning requirements. Check the specifications for the individual kit and make sure the master cylinder, proportioning valve, booster, and calipers are compatible as a complete system.
Do rear big brake kits include a parking brake?
Some do, but not every rear big brake kit uses the same parking brake setup. This collection includes rear disc brake conversions with parking brake options as well as other rear brake configurations. Depending on the kit and vehicle, additional cables, brackets, or related hardware may be required. If retaining a functional parking brake is important, confirm the parking brake design and included components on the individual product page before ordering.