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MG TD TF 1500 - TD DISC BRAKES ?

IS THERE ANY WAY TO INSTALL FRONT DISC BRAKES ON A TD? HAS THIS BEEN DONE? WHAT WHERE THE RESULTSS? IS IT REVERSABLE?

THANKS FOR ANY HELP, KARL
KARL KECK

Yes, by using MGA 1600, 1622 components. I don't know if the master needs changing too.

Blake
Blake J.

Check the archives for the correct procedure and parts needed. There's lots of info there. I'm using the MGA 1600 front suspension,spindles, and brake parts.......they bolt right up and the parts aren't too hard to find. You may have to come up with longer brake hoses, but that's about it.

Supposedly makes a huge difference, although the purists won't talk to you anymore. Ah well,.......life goes on.

Pete W
Peter Whelan

I have used MGB uprights, discs and calipers and these will fit directly to the lower wishbone but require spacers for the top to fit the wider shocker arms.

From a perfomance perspective my current TD has original drum brakes with all lines both hard and flexible replaced, cylinders sleeved with stainless steel and machine matched drums and shoes and it stops quicker than an MGB with discs. I would only be considering discs for repeated high speed stopping (such as competition use).
Phil Stafford

I agree with Phil. Why? The TD brakes are fine and will surpass the friction available on the tires if working as designed.

Chris
Chris Couper

Same opinion from me. If you don't race, it's just not worth all the effort. If your brake system is correctly set up with modern linings and really round drums, it is fully adequate for the weight and speed of the car. And for long winding downhill roads, remember what was said in driving lessons of the time when such cars were new: use the same gear downhill you would use uphill and let the engine do most of the braking.
Remo Peter

Yup, same thoughts here.

Standard drums in good nick and well-adjusted have more than enough power to lockup all 4 wheels.

Discs will not give you an easier pedal, you'll want power assistance for that.



The only time I've rued the drums is when I pressure-washed the wheels... whoops no more brakes!! Discs would have thrown off the water/grease a lot faster and I wouldn't have had to drive for 10 mins with useless anchors. (Then again, some might say this was caused by 'user error', fair comment.)



re: "use the same gear downhill you would use uphill and let the engine do most of the braking"... hmmm... I did that down a gentle gradient and broke a halfshaft! :(
Will

I have converted several TDs to disc brake using MGA 1600 parts. You need a disc brake master cylinder rebuild kit and the instructions therein. Also, shorten the TD tie rods by 3/8" on each side.
Scott Barrow

If you make the front brakes alot better by fitting drums youll stuff up the bias unless you uprate the rear as well.

Id leave the stock drums there if you have to uprate them but I wouldnt put discs on.
Paul

This thread was discussed between 31/10/2002 and 19/11/2002

MG TD TF 1500 index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG TD TF 1500 BBS is active now.