So, going to finally do the LS1 brake upgrade this weekend. I've searched/read through the threads. I've looked at the procedure in the Fbody.com install guide.

But I have one question before I start. After you take the 3 castle nuts off the spindle..is there a lot of spring tension from the upper/lower A-arms squeezing the spindle in place. Looking at the pictures, would the front shock/spring keep the spindle compressed, or could I just spread the A-arms to take the spindle out without using some special tool to keep them separated?

Also, any other tricks/roadblocks would be appreciated. I hear about soaking the castle nuts in WD40 first...anything else?

 

WHen on jacks the struts are fully extended and resting on their internal stops. There will be no load on either control arm when you break the ball joint free.

Re'

 

Oh...yeah...that little thing about the tires being off the ground. Good point. Thanks, that was the feedback I'm looking for. I was just looking at my car the other day visualizing how I'm going to do this, because I hear it takes all day...mostly to get the castle nuts off, I guess. Forgot that the spring is compressed because of the weight of the car and tires on the ground. Duh!

 

Depending on your mechanical skill,it may take you a full day.....
When i did my conversion up front it took me roughly 2 hours,some people pull it all apart (calipers,rotors etc.)but its not nessesary just remove the brake line at the frame(drain pan needed),remove the cotter pins,castle nuts and remove the old spindle with the rotor and caliper attatched...
The rear took me 4 hours.I had to replace the e-brake cable(in car)as well,LOL it was broken for a year!

 

Bring this old thread back up...

Anybody have any tips for doing this upgrade(LS1 front brake upgrade/lower a-arm) I'll be starting on my car this week, and would like to get all the help I can. Swap the spindle/brake setup out first, then replace the a-arms?