I have been searching for hours - I can not find the answer to my question:

Do the LT1 spindles have to be swapped for the LS1 spindles or can the LT1 spindles simply be modified by cutting off the ear?

I thought I read years ago that the LT1 spindles could be modified to fit the LS1 caliper & bracket - is this true?

All the info I have found say to swap the spindles!

Thanks, Shimaze

 

If you're doing what is commonly known as the LS1 brake swap then you must use the LS1 spindles. The spindles can be from any 98-02 f-body, not just the V8 cars. The best way to do the swap is get the spindle with all brake components as a package.

There are aftermarket brake upgrades that can use either type of spindle. Both types would need to have the caliper mounts cut off, you just have to cut more on the LT1 type spindles.

 

There can be confusion, because you seem to be talking about the steering knuckle and not the spindle (which would be the wheel hub).

 

Thanks for the replies. I found my answer. As per BMR’s website & instructions, the LT1 spindles can be modified to accept C5 brake adapters.

Quote from BMR’s instructions:

"At this time it is necessary to modify the factory spindle to accept the BMR adapter bracket. On ’93-’97 cars, cut off both caliper mounting ears as shown in Image 1. For ’98-’02 cars, it is only necessary to remove the lower caliper mounting ear. This is most easily accomplished with a Sawzall or portable band saw. When finished, the spindle should look similar to Image 2."

BMR’s instructions: http://www.bmrsuspension.com/siteart/install/BCB001.pdf

But one thing I do not know for sure is can LT1 spindles be modified to accept LS1 calipers, rotors, & brackets.

These pics are from BMR's instructions





Thanks, Shimaze

 

Old thread I know, but I'm looking for the answer to this question now. Any changes from 10 years ago?

 

I never did do anything with my old Camaro. I drove it for a few years while I was in college, but for the most part it has just been sitting for the last 10 years. I never did do anything with the brakes. Don't worry, I love old posts. But some are old post haters 😕

 

You probably got an answer, but for anyone else who is looking at this -- the easiest way to do this is to just get the '98-'02 steering knuckles/spindles. I got my LS1 brakes from a local pull-a-part junkyard, then realized I needed the steering knuckles (also sourced from a junkyard).