[V8] The Least Expensive UFO Brake Conversion Option?

[GSTREIN at aol.com]

Steve,

You may want to wait a little and contact Bira for updated info. - at last 
check Bira was indeed working on a conversion for the UFO's.  They were 
experimenting with a rotor that would allow one to keep existing UFO strut 
assembly.  I was going to volunteer my V8 and pay for the 1st conversion but 
I wanted a larger diameter rotor and they didn't want to go in this 
direction.  I wanted the ability to use the newer Porsche 996TT monoblock 
calipers (similar to the big red's but have a tad larger pad but are actually 
smaller calipers - not as long as the big reds).  My wants would mean a 2 mm 
larger rotor but they stated that this would mean it would only work on 
larger rims.  Bira already requires the use of 16" rims due to the larger 
brake caliper/rotor combination.  This is a good thing though...you need more 
rotor to stop these heavy weights!!  That's what braking is all about!!!

The mod you are speaking about is converting back to standard G60 brake 
components which use smaller rotors and dual piston calipers.  Many have made 
comments that this setup does not brake as efficiently as the UFO's.

If it is just a matter of you needing new UFO pads you can get them cheap at 
any AutoZone part # PKM467 for only $44.99 with a lifetime warranty (BTW - 
you have to ask for 1991 V8 pads or they won't show proper application - at 
least not at my location).  If you need the actual UFO rotors that is another 
matter but make sure you really need new rotors. Many shimmy issues are 
related to suspension bushings and such that make it seem that rotors are 
causing the symptoms.

I'll be upgrading my UFO's this spring depending on what Bira actually comes 
out with and if I want to spend big bucks on a MOVIT conversion.  MOVIT.COM 
or Ultimategarage.com.  Also, Keith Anderson (look on the vendors list) will 
create a custom UFO mod to conventional rotor kit for you if you are willing 
to replace the hubs with a machined version that will accommodate the smaller 
hat on the conventional rotors.  The only negative to this is that you must 
have the bearings replaced to do such.  IF your vehicle already needs 
bearings than this might be a good choice...mod runs about $1300 - but don't 
quote me...you may want to look through the archive here over the last few 
months under both V8 an 20v forums...you will find more UFO info...

Last Bennett Audimotive (2bennett.com) has a big brake conversion that does 
not require the replacement of UFO struts...There kit uses a custom hat that 
fits the existing UFO hub.  They use Brembo 4 piston calipers (big red's) and 
you can get various size rotors depending on the size of your rims.  Their 
kit runs $1989 for everything (less labor)..includes stainless lines, high 
temp silicon brake fluid, custom rotors big and thick..these baby's wont 
warp, and all hardware.

Good luck - you on the right track if you are going to mod. over to the 
UFO's. You would use the strut/hub assemblies from any of the mention 
vehicles from your post.  You would reuse your current Springs, shocks (strut 
inserts)...they have a higher weight capability (springs)...other than that 
it is very straight forward.

Take care - Frank