Crane Axle GM 14-Bolt Rear 3/4-Ton Disc Brake Conversion Kit
WA01033
The GM 14-Bolt Rear 3/4-Ton Disc Brake Conversion Kit replaces the factory drum brakes on GM 14-Bolt full-float rear axles with a lighter, more efficient 3/4-ton disc brake system. Designed by Crane Axle, this complete conversion delivers improved stopping power, faster heat dissipation, easier maintenance, and reduced unsprung weight for off-road and heavy-duty applications.
Built around weld-on 3/8-inch steel caliper brackets with integrated gussets, this kit is designed for 3.50-inch axle tubes and utilizes common GM 3/4-ton rotors and calipers. The result is a durable, serviceable braking system ideal for rock crawlers, rock bouncers, Ultra4 race cars, tow rigs, and custom axle builds.
Includes:
- (2) Weld-On 3/8" Steel Caliper Brackets with Integrated Gussets
- (2) GM 3/4-Ton Brake Calipers
- (2) GM 3/4-Ton Brake Rotors
- (1) Set of Brake Pads
- (16) 9/16"-18 Wheel Studs
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Crane Axle |
| Product Type | Rear Disc Brake Conversion Kit |
| Axle Compatibility | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axles |
| Axle Tube Diameter | 3.50" |
| Bracket Material | 3/8" High-Strength Steel |
| Bracket Style | Weld-On with Integrated Gussets |
| Rotor Type | GM 3/4-Ton Disc Rotor |
| Caliper Type | GM 3/4-Ton Disc Brake Caliper |
| Wheel Stud Size | 9/16"-18 |
| Wheel Compatibility | Fits Most 15" Steel Wheels |
| Installation | Weld-On Conversion |
Fitment
| Make | Model | Year Range | Axle Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet | C2500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| Chevrolet | K2500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| Chevrolet | C3500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| Chevrolet | K3500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| GMC | C2500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| GMC | K2500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| GMC | C3500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
| GMC | K3500 | 1973–2000 | GM 14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle |
Fitment Notes
- Designed for GM 14-Bolt full-float rear axle housings.
- Fits axle housings with 3.50" outside diameter axle tubes.
- Uses common GM 3/4-ton brake rotors and calipers for simplified future service.
- Compatible with most 15-inch steel wheels. Verify wheel and caliper clearance before installation.
- Suitable for off-road vehicles, rock crawlers, rock bouncers, Ultra4 race cars, and custom fabricated axle applications.
- Professional welding and proper bracket alignment are required during installation.
FAQ
1. Why convert a GM 14-Bolt from drum brakes to disc brakes?
Disc brakes dissipate heat much more efficiently than drum brakes, providing more consistent braking performance, improved pedal feel, and better resistance to brake fade during heavy towing and aggressive off-road use.
2. How does removing the factory drum brakes improve suspension performance?
Factory drum assemblies are significantly heavier than comparable disc brake components. Reducing unsprung weight allows the suspension and shocks to react more quickly to terrain changes, improving ride quality and tire control.
3. Why are the caliper brackets made from 3/8-inch steel with integrated gussets?
The heavy-duty laser-cut brackets provide a rigid mounting surface for the calipers, while the welded gussets help resist flex during repeated high-load braking. Accurate bracket alignment also promotes even brake pad wear.
4. Why use common GM 3/4-ton brake components?
GM 3/4-ton rotors and calipers are widely available and easy to source, making future maintenance and replacement straightforward whether the vehicle is used on the trail or driven long distances to events.
5. What should be verified before welding the brackets to the axle housing?
Confirm axle tube diameter, rotor position, caliper alignment, wheel clearance, parking brake requirements, and brake hose routing before final welding. Proper fixture alignment ensures correct caliper positioning and long-term braking performance.
