2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission what was the first year for rear disk brakes?

[San Felipe Bob]

I'm looking to change the whole rear end for the disk model.

I need to know what year to ask for at the wrecking yards.



Thanks

SFB

 

[tgbol]

I believe it was 2001 built after July 2000. I ordered mine in September 2000, took delivery November 2, 2000. It has rear discs

 

[Big White Beast]

More than just the rear end.........

You need the parking brake cables to just below the drivers door. The adjuster is also different. The distribution block on top of the axle that goes to the frame is also different along with the two rear lines.



The master cylinder for the discs has a larger piston and resevoir. You could bypass this but pedal travel will probably be further and you will have to fill the resevoir more often as the rear calipers eat up way more fluid than the small cylinders on the drums. If you do change it the rod coming out of the booster is longer on the drum one. This will have to be ground down. The spacer that the master sits on needs to have the hole drilled bigger too.



I also believe that the proportioning valve changed. That was the one thing I didn't replace. From what I've been able to find out it diverts more pressure to the rears on the drum one. In my case with the utility bed and all my weight I was happy with that set up. Not sure on an empty truck if you would have a war between them trying to lock and the ABS holding it off.



For me braking power was GREATLY improved. Go for it!



As to your original question. Tgbol is right, mid year 01 they changed, hence the 01. 5 trucks. I searched a ton of yards and had no luck finding any with late model stuff. That and my 3:73 gear would have had to be changed to the new rear so it was easier for me to make new brackets and weld em on to the axle.



If you have any questions let me know.



Garrett