Vented Disc Brake upgrade for 74-75 180b struts

Parts Required

1. 74 - 75 model 180b Struts
2. Magna Verada Rotors (276mm x 24mm version, NOT the 266mm)
3. VL Turbo Calipers - VN V8 - VS calipers I have been told will fit, but they do not have the alloy cooling fins.
4. New Wheel bearings - optional, but worth doing, cost approximately $70 retail

Parts Codes
Magna Disc part number : DB425 - for slotted and undrilled use DB425USL & DB425USR

Click to view attachmentClick to view attachment

Rotors that are already drilled to 5 stud can be redrilled.

Removing old brakes

1. Remove the 180b caliper
2. Pry the bearing cover off the front of the hub, remove the split pin, then remove the nut underneath.
3. Once the nut is removed, you can pull the complete hub and rotor away from the strut.
4. Turn hub over and remove the 4 bolts that hold the rotor on.

Fitting new brakes

Most brake shops will be able to redrill the rotors to suit the hub, and also the centre hole. If they are unsure then simply supply your hub along with the new discs.

Standard charges for redrilling of rotors in nsw is approx $50 for 2 rotors. Also, replacing the wheel bearings at this point may also be a good idea if the age or condition is an unknown (approx $70 for bearings and grease).

1. Bolt new Magna rotor to the back of the hub.
2. Put hub back on strut, screw on nut to right tension, then re-install split pin and cap.
3. The caliper will have 2 parts as they are a sliding design, attach the base to the strut, then put 1 bolt into the caliper section. Install the pads then bring the caliper down over the pads and install 2nd bolt and tighten both.
4. Screw in and attach brake line (some new brake lines may be needed if the stock datsun connectors do not mate to the commodore stuff).
5. Recheck all bolts
6. Go and test.


Pics below are borrowed from Seb (boosted frog from fj20.com) -> http://www.geocities.com/datsun180bfj20det/180bz.html

Stock 180b brakes VS VL/Magna option
Click to view attachmentClick to view attachment
Click to view attachmentClick to view attachment


More pictures will be added for the conversion when available.