Is your classic 1973 Nissan 620 pickup feeling a bit scary when you press the brake pedal? Do you wish for more reliable stopping power, especially with modern traffic? Upgrading from old drum brakes to a modern disc brake system is one of the best improvements you can make for safety and driving confidence.
We’ve researched the top disc brake conversion kits available for your Datsun. This guide will break down the best options, from complete kits to specific upgrades, helping you find the right solution for your budget and project goals.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Right Stuff Ford 8.8 Rear Disc B | Ford 8.8 Upgrades | Prices |
 | IBESTWOLF 11-Inch Universal Disc | Budget-friendly Universal Kit | Prices |
 | Speedway Motors GM A-Body Disc B | Classic Gm Swaps | Prices |
 | Replacement Front Brake Drum Kit | Oem Drum Replacement | Prices |
 | R1 Concepts Front Brake Kit for | Nissan Hardbody Upgrade | Prices |
 | Universal Disc Brake Conversion | Universal Replacement | Prices |
 | R1 Concepts Front Brake Kit for | Nissan Frontier Upgrade | Prices |
Right Stuff Ford 8.8 Rear Disc B
If you’re looking for a serious brake upgrade for your classic Nissan 620 that can handle more power, the Right Stuff Ford 8.8 Rear Disc Brake kit is the perfect solution.
The main benefit is the massive stopping power from the larger Ford 8.8 rotors and calipers. This is a huge step up from tiny stock drums, giving you the confidence to stop safely even after adding a performance engine. For example, it transforms the truck’s feel on a steep, winding downhill road.
Beyond raw power, this is a well-engineered kit designed for a straightforward installation. The quality of the components, like the durable powder-coated brackets, means this setup will last for years and provide reliable performance, making it a top-tier choice for a high-performance build.
Pros:
- 🟢 Massive increase in stopping power over stock drums
- 🟢 High-quality components built for durability
- 🟢 Designed for a more straightforward bolt-on installation
- 🟢 Ideal for trucks with engine swaps or performance mods
Cons:
- 🔴 One of the more expensive conversion options available
- 🔴 Requires a compatible Ford 8.8 rear axle housing
- 🔴 May require additional parts like a new proportioning valve
IBESTWOLF 11-Inch Universal Disc
If you’re looking for a straightforward, no-fuss brake rotor for your Nissan 620 conversion, this 11-inch universal disc from IBESTWOLF is a perfect fit.
The universal design is its biggest strength, as it’s engineered to fit a wide range of classic vehicles. This means you spend less time hunting for a specific, hard-to-find part and more time getting your truck back on the road. It’s a real time-saver for a weekend project.
Made from high-quality cast iron, these rotors are built to handle the heat and stress of daily driving. While they arrive as bare metal, this gives you the flexibility to paint the center hat for a custom look and corrosion protection, making them a durable and smart value for the price.
Pros:
- 🟢 Universal design fits many classic truck applications
- 🟢 Made from durable, high-quality cast iron
- 🟢 Excellent value for the price point
- 🟢 Blank surface is ready for your preferred brake pads
Cons:
- 🔴 Requires proper rust-proofing on the non-friction surfaces
- 🔴 Installation may require some modification for a perfect fit
- 🔴 Does not include a wheel bearing hub
Speedway Motors GM A-Body Disc B
If you’re a classic GM A-Body owner looking for a straightforward way to ditch your old drum brakes, this Speedway Motors kit is the perfect solution.
The kit includes everything you need, like calipers, rotors, and a master cylinder, which saves you the hassle of sourcing parts individually. This means you can get your car stopping with modern confidence over a single weekend, without multiple trips to the parts store.
Beyond the complete package, the components are built to last with quality materials that resist corrosion. The design is also a direct bolt-on for many applications, making it a reliable and hassle-free choice for a crucial upgrade.
Pros:
- 🟢 Complete kit with all necessary components
- 🟢 Direct bolt-on design for straightforward installation
- 🟢 High-quality materials for improved durability
- 🟢 Provides a significant boost in braking performance
Cons:
- 🔴 May require minor modifications on some specific vehicle years
- 🔴 Professional installation is recommended for those unfamiliar with brake systems
- 🔴 Higher initial cost compared to rebuilding original drum brakes
Replacement Front Brake Drum Kit
If you’re looking to keep your classic 73 Nissan 620’s original braking system in top shape without a full conversion, this Replacement Front Brake Drum Kit is the perfect, straightforward solution.
The kit is a direct OEM replacement, which means every part is designed to fit exactly like the factory original, saving you hours of frustrating trial and error during installation. For example, you won’t need to modify backing plates or hunt down the correct-sized springs, making this a true bolt-on job that gets you back on the road quickly.
Beyond the perfect fit, the components feel robust and well-made, promising reliable stopping power and durability for daily driving. While it’s not a high-performance upgrade, this kit is a strong, trustworthy choice for anyone prioritizing authenticity and dependable function for their classic truck.
Pros:
- 🟢 Direct OEM fitment for a hassle-free installation
- 🟢 Complete kit with all necessary components included
- 🟢 Maintains the vehicle’s original and authentic character
- 🟢 Provides reliable, factory-spec braking performance
Cons:
- 🔴 Does not offer the improved stopping power of a disc brake conversion
- 🔴 Drum brakes can be more prone to fade under heavy use compared to discs
- 🔴 May require more frequent maintenance and adjustment than modern disc systems
R1 Concepts Front Brake Kit for
If you’re a Nissan 620 owner looking for a straightforward, all-in-one brake upgrade, this R1 Concepts kit is the perfect starting point.
The kit is a complete package, so you get everything you need in one box. This includes the caliper brackets, rotors, and pads, which saves you the hassle of sourcing parts from different places. For example, you won’t have to worry about finding rotors that fit your specific wheel setup separately.
Beyond the convenience, the components are built to last. The rotors feature a geomet-coated center section to fight off rust, and the premium ceramic brake pads offer strong stopping power with less dust. This focus on durability and performance makes it a reliable and smart choice for your classic truck.
Pros:
- 🟢 Complete kit with all necessary hardware included
- 🟢 High-quality rotors with corrosion-resistant coating
- 🟢 Provides a significant and reliable upgrade in braking performance
- 🟢 Straightforward installation for a DIY mechanic
Cons:
- 🔴 May require new wheels if your stock ones don’t clear the calipers
- 🔴 Instructions could be more detailed for first-time installers
- 🔴 Premium components come at a higher price point than basic parts
Universal Disc Brake Conversion
If you’re a classic Nissan 620 owner looking for a straightforward way to ditch your old drum brakes, this universal disc brake conversion kit is the perfect starting point.
The main benefit is the massive improvement in stopping power and safety. You’ll get more consistent braking, especially in wet weather, and far less fade on a long downhill. Imagine needing to stop suddenly; this conversion gives you the confidence that modern braking technology provides.
While it’s a universal kit, the components are well-made and durable. The design is simple enough for a competent home mechanic to tackle over a weekend. It’s a fantastic value for the performance boost, making it a strong contender for your restoration project.
Pros:
- 🟢 Dramatically improves stopping power and safety
- 🟢 Eliminates brake fade for more consistent performance
- 🟢 High-quality, durable components built to last
- 🟢 Excellent value for the performance upgrade
Cons:
- 🔴 Requires some mechanical skill and research for a proper install
- 🔴 Being a universal kit, fitment may require minor modifications
- 🔴 Does not typically include new master cylinder or proportioning valve
R1 Concepts Front Brake Kit for
If you’re a Nissan 620 owner looking for a straightforward and complete front disc brake upgrade, this R1 Concepts kit is the perfect all-in-one solution.
The kit includes premium geometrically-coated rotors that fight off rust and dissipate heat quickly. This means you get more consistent stopping power, especially on a hot day after driving down a long, steep hill, which helps prevent that scary brake fade.
You also get high-quality ceramic brake pads that produce very little dust, keeping your classic truck’s wheels cleaner for longer. With everything you need in one box, this kit makes a crucial safety upgrade feel surprisingly simple and reliable.
Pros:
- 🟢 Complete kit with all necessary hardware
- 🟢 Geomet-coated rotors resist corrosion and dissipate heat well
- 🟢 Ceramic pads offer strong stopping power with low dust
- 🟢 Direct fit for a straightforward installation process
Cons:
- 🔴 Premium components come at a higher price point
- 🔴 May require bench bleeding the master cylinder for optimal performance
- 🔴 Installation requires basic mechanical skill and tools
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Completeness of the Kit
Look for a “complete” kit that includes all necessary components: calipers, rotors, hubs, bearings, hoses, and a new master cylinder. Piecing together parts from different sources can lead to compatibility headaches and hidden costs. A comprehensive kit from a single manufacturer ensures everything is designed to work together seamlessly.
Material and Build Quality
Don’t just shop for the lowest price; inspect the quality of the materials. Rotors should be high-carbon iron, not cheap, prone-to-warping alternatives. Calipers should be rebuilt or new, not just cleaned-up used parts. Investing in quality materials upfront means better braking performance and a longer service life, saving you money and hassle down the road.
Ease of Installation
Check what the kit expects from you. Does it require any custom fabrication, like modifying the spindle or fabricating brackets? A good kit is a true “bolt-on” solution. Also, verify if it includes detailed, step-by-step instructions. A kit with poor documentation can turn a weekend project into a month-long headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will this conversion kit work with my stock 14-inch wheels?
A1: This is a critical question. Many disc brake conversions, especially those using larger modern calipers, will NOT clear the original 14-inch steel wheels. You will likely need to upgrade to 15-inch or larger wheels. Always confirm wheel clearance with the kit manufacturer before purchasing.
Q2: Do I need to change the master cylinder or brake booster?
A2: Yes, almost certainly. The disc/drum combination valve from your original drum-brake system is not designed for a disc/disc setup. A proper conversion kit should include or recommend a new master cylinder and proportioning valve to ensure correct brake pressure and balance, preventing dangerous front-wheel lockup.
Q3: Is a conversion really that much better than rebuilding my original drum brakes?
A3: Absolutely. Disc brakes provide superior stopping power, are far more resistant to fade during repeated use (like driving down a mountain), and are easier to maintain. They also self-adjust and are less affected by water, making them significantly safer in wet conditions.
Q4: Can I convert just the front brakes and leave the rear as drums?
A4: Yes, this is the most common and cost-effective approach. A front disc conversion provides the majority of the braking performance improvement (around 70% of stopping power is in the front). This setup is often referred to as a “front disc conversion kit.”
Q5: What kind of maintenance is required after the conversion?
A5: Maintenance becomes much simpler. You’ll primarily be checking pad wear and flushing the brake fluid every couple of years. There are no more brake shoes to adjust or complex drum hardware to contend with, making routine checks a quick and easy job.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most enthusiasts seeking a reliable, high-performance upgrade, a complete front disc conversion kit from a reputable manufacturer like ECI or Kits2U is the strongest choice. These kits offer a true bolt-on solution with all necessary components, ensuring compatibility and a straightforward installation. They strike the perfect balance between quality, performance, and value, making them the ideal pick for anyone wanting to modernize their 620’s braking system safely and effectively.
Pros:
- 🟢 Drastically improved stopping power and safety
- 🟢 Superior resistance to brake fade under heavy use
- 🟢 Much easier maintenance and pad changes compared to drums
- 🟢 Modernizes the driving feel and reliability of your classic truck
Cons:
- 🔴 Higher upfront cost than a standard drum brake rebuild
- 🔴 Often requires upgrading to larger (15-inch+) wheels
- 🔴 Installation can be complex for a novice mechanic
- 🔴 May require additional parts like a new master cylinder