1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Upgrade questions for my 79’ SA

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Old 02-13-21, 03:20 PM
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Upgrade questions for my 79’ SA

I have a 79’ S model and want to upgrade the 4speed transmission and brakes. I came across a complete 80’ SA with only the seats missing in the junkyard. The transmission on this 80’ is a 5speed and I know the brake system is better on the 80’ compared to the 79’.
I know I need to take the whole transmission but I need more details for the brakes. I wanted to know what exactly should I take off the 80’ to make these upgrades to make sure I don’t miss any parts that I need to do this.
Thanks in advance!
Old 02-14-21, 09:32 AM
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It's really not worth upgrading to the 1980 brakes. The fronts are the same and I think the main difference on the back is the auto adjuster (i could be wrong that the 80 is auto adjuster). You really want rear disc for an upgrade. The transmission is a good choice.
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Old 02-14-21, 09:45 AM
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I second the trans option. I believe you want to find 84-85s for disc conversion
Old 02-14-21, 02:13 PM
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Got it, thanks. I just thought there was something on the front calipers that worked better on the 80’ compared to the 79’. If it’s not that much different than guess I can keep what I have. Also to upgrade to discs in the rear I think there’s a lot more changes I’d have to make like the brake lines and not sure what else at the moment
Old 02-14-21, 02:58 PM
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Waffles - hmmm good

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The 80 font disc are on bolts that slide while the 79 use the wedges instead if I remember right and they both use the same rear drum setup, no self adjusters on either. If the 79 brakes are working fine its not worth it but You might want to just grab the whole front spring/shoc/spindle with brake assembly, could come in handy later if you have issues with the 79 front suspension.
Old 02-14-21, 05:53 PM
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Originally Posted by t_g_farrell
The 80 font disc are on bolts that slide while the 79 use the wedges instead if I remember right and they both use the same rear drum setup, no self adjusters on either. If the 79 brakes are working fine its not worth it but You might want to just grab the whole front spring/shoc/spindle with brake assembly, could come in handy later if you have issues with the 79 front suspension.

okay cool, sounds like a plan. Thanks!
Old 02-14-21, 05:56 PM
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Btw, here is the link to the 80’ available

https://losangeles.craigslist.org/sf...275086411.html
Old 02-23-21, 12:39 PM
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if you want modern feeling brakes, techno toy tuning sells a big break kit and an upgraded mini booster/ master cylinder. It Will set you back about 1,500$ bucks but its truly the best you can buy.
Old 02-23-21, 06:21 PM
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drdode, I PM'd you.
Old 02-25-21, 01:00 AM
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Originally Posted by Frogman
if you want modern feeling brakes, techno toy tuning sells a big break kit and an upgraded mini booster/ master cylinder. It Will set you back about 1,500$ bucks but its truly the best you can buy.

okay cool will check it out. Thanks
Old 02-25-21, 01:01 AM
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Originally Posted by banzai
drdode, i pm'd you.

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Old 02-25-21, 01:05 AM
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Originally Posted by banzai
drdode, i pm'd you.

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