Okay i have read about switching from the 79 style struts to the 81 and up... but what i dont get is exactly what do i need to do this swap? i know i need the strut cartrages.. but what else.. ?

 

aint gonna work. I just cant remember exactly but the SA and FB struts doesnt have the same leght. Just grab the entire 81-85 strut/brake assembly and install it as a set.

 

so i need to find one in a junkyard or something? oh and wacky since i am upgrading everything what kinda springs would you suggest? and where the hell do i get hard brake lines and a proportioning valve..

 

If you are to do a complete 81+ swap (including rear), no need to get new brake lines if you grab the entire brake system except the master cylinder. But if all you;re getting is the fronts, then grab the 81+'s hardline end fitting to the flex hose. Buy a flare tool from harbor freight.

So when you get home, all you have to do is cut the SA's brakeline end fitting, slip the FB and flare it.

I've owned 2 SA's in the past and they are all GSL conversion (except for one, I didnt change the interior). Much lighter and with a ported motor, you WILL feel the power.

 

okay wacky.. i am getting a rear end from a 81 GSL it has the rotors and calipers still on it.. so if i keep my front brakes all i need to do is get a flaring tool then? do i need to switch out the master cylinder or not.. i would like to do as little as needed.. i really dont want to swap out all the hard lines.. i was going to switch out the hoses for SS ones.. so let me know.. and thank you for all your help you are great

 

wacky where are ya?

 

1. If you can get all everything from a FB, everything will bolt up to SA except for the brake booster (SA is smaller). That will save you lots of $$$.

2. If you have plans to change to SS, then I highly recommend for you to gather all the parts such as the GSL disc-to-disc assembly, e-cable and lastly, a modded mazdatrix/RB SS. The modded SS brake hoses has a SA female fitting on one end and FB male on the other. So there is no need to flare the brake lines.

NOTE: Upgrading your SA"s brake master/proportioning is not necessary.

 

okay so here is what i have and what i had planned. I am getting the rear axle with the brakes included.. and i was going to upgrade my front brakes to the 81-83 calipers since i have the old wedge style.. so if i get this right if i keep my front brakes i can go with the mazdatrix SS lines for the 79 with GSL disk rear... correct? so the only other thing i would need is the e-brake cables. right?

 

Yes on the SS and yes on the e-cable(not the whole cable assembly but just the section that connects to the rear calipers).

 

well that is the plan then.. until i get new front calipers.. then i will have to get something custom made.