MidwestSHO Big Brake upgrade (rear)

[Mels]

Hey fellas, have searched for info specific to '89 but I can't seem to figure this one out.

A couple years ago I bought the big brake (11.6") rear upgrade from MidwestSHO for my '89 with factory knuckles, and am looking forward to finally installing it this Summer.

The kit came complete with adapter brackets to relocate the factory calipers out a little further.

My question is this: Will I need to upgrade to the next year ('90-'92) rear knuckles, or is this kit designed to accomodate my factory '89 knuckles?

Or, would it be worthwhile to pass on the Midwest kit and upgrade, if there is even any difference, to a later completely second gen rear set-up?

Any input from fellow '89 owners who have personal experience in this would be greatly appreciated, although I look forward to what other thoughts are out there.

Thanks!

 

[SinisterSHO]

I believe the rear knuckles have always been the same. So, you just need the brackets and the larger rotors, and you should be good to go.

 

[SHO92]

Rear knuckles on the 89 are different then all of the other years.

If the kit was purchased for your 89, I'd assume that Midwest had it specially made for that year.

 

[Mels]

Rear knuckles on the 89 are different then all of the other years.

If the kit was purchased for your 89, I'd assume that Midwest had it specially made for that year.

Yup. It'd make sense that that'd be the case, but then again I don't know any other '89 owners who have installed this kit. Ultimately, I'll find out simply enough when I try the install, but had hoped to line up anything I might need in advance...

Thanks for the input so far guys

 

[luigisho]

Most '89 owners didn't install it because it wasn't recommended for cars without ABS.

 

[Mels]

Yeah, I can understand why that (non-ABS) may be an issue.

I'm not planning on installing the bias plugs, as a matter of fact I gave the plugs that came in the kit to a good friend, so I'm hoping that keeping the rear bias system operational may cut down the probability of the rears locking up. That and the car really is only street driven, and typically in clear three season weather. It doesn't like the rain, and I'm lucky to have a place to keep it inside during the winter.

 

[SHO Dude]

Good luck with that.

The height sensing proportioning valve helps keep the rear wheels from locking up under hard braking. Without the valve, be prepared for the car to swap ends the next time some dumb a$$ pulls out in front of you.

 

[Mels]

I'm sorry Doug, maybe I don't understand what you're saying.

I have no intention of modifying the bias valve. Keeping it functioning as designed in hopes that it will work to eliminate, or at least limit the probability of rear brake lockup.

Maybe you mis-read my previous post and thought I intended on modifying the bias valve?

Thanks for the lookout though, I appreciate your input.

 

[SHO Dude]

I'm sorry Doug, maybe I don't understand what you're saying.

I have no intention of modifying the bias valve. Keeping it functioning as designed in hopes that it will work to eliminate, or at least limit the probability of rear brake lockup.

Maybe you mis-read my previous post and thought I intended on modifying the bias valve?

Thanks for the lookout though, I appreciate your input.

After re-reading your post, I completely missed that point. You're right, an operational rear bias system is the safest way to keep these cars on the road.

I appologise for being a quick-draw with a keyboard.

 

[Mr Anonymous]

Mel, there are 3 different 11.6 rear bracket adapters. One is '89-specific, the others are for 90-92 or 93+. Since you bought the '89-specific kit it should fit poifectly.

 

[Mels]

Thanks Chris. The next rounds' on me :wave: