Disc brake upgrade...which one?

[NoviceM]

Can anyone advise a new owner. I wish to purchase disc brake upgrade. Can anyone suggest which is best type/make (and supplier) they would suggest based on their experience.

[svenedin]

First I would ensure the existing drum brake system is working properly. Then you can decide if you really want disc brakes. I really don’t understand why they are necessary but then again I learnt to drive on a Morris Minor at 17 and still own the same car 34 years later. I have an Audi S3 (310 hp) with massive ventilated disc brakes that will stop on a sixpence -the Morris is an entirely different driving style. A lot of anticipation is needed and engine braking especially downhill. Just accept your Morris is different. Let the moderns race around if they must. I can keep up most of the time in my Minor (although I would never go on a motorway). I drove on the M25 in 1995 in the Morris. Never again. Xavier did not like it.

[philthehill]

The ESM Morris Marina Grumpy's kit every time.
Cheap, parts readily available and a known product.
Most importantly it does the job. Had the Grumpy's kit fitted to my Minor for many years without trouble.
Can be used with or without a servo.
You must remove the master cylinder top hat seal what ever kit is fitted.
https://www.morrisminorspares.com/brake ... on-p829453

[NoviceM]

Many thanks,
Marina Grumpies seems to be the way to go. Would you feel the extension fluid reservoir is necessary.
Cheers

[philthehill]

In my opinion not an essential item.
There is enough brake fluid reserve in the original master cylinder.
The only advantage of having the remote reservoir is that it is easier to check the brake fluid level.
I have never had a remote brake fluid reservoir fitted to additionally supply my Grumpy's disk brake conversion master cylinder.

[NoviceM]

Many thanks, your replies have been most helpful ...to me a novice morris owner.

[Sleeper]

" The only advantage of having the remote reservoir is that it is easier to check the brake fluid level. " .. and top up.

John ;-)

[ManyMinors]

You should very seldom need to top up though

[Sleeper]

Correct.

( No one ever expects the Spanish Inquisition )

John;-)

[philthehill]

When a brake calliper piston moves towards the brake disc the amount of fluid required behind the piston is greater than that required by a wheel cylinder pushing the brake shoes towards the brake drum. Therefore the level of the brake fluid does go down more than a brake system fitted with wheel cylinders.
Also the wheel cylinder piston is pulled back by the shoe return springs so returning brake fluid back to the master cylinder when the pedal is released. The calliper piston is not pulled back but is constantly moving towards the brake disc and so does not push brake fluid back to the master cylinder when the brake pedal is released.
The brake fluid level of a braking system fitted with brake disc callipers must be checked more frequently than a system fitted with wheel cylinders.
If the Minor brake master cylinder is regularly checked for adequate brake fluid then there is no reason for an additional brake fluid reservoir.

[NoviceM]

Very greatful for all the very helpful replies.