I think I figured out my brake problem

[Chris64]

My brakes have never been great. I didn't expect it to be like a new truck but you really need to push to stop. It IS barely possible to make the tires skid if you push hard enough, but it's not easy. I was wondering if it was a vacuum problem and I can't say I've tested the vacuum between the carb and the booster because everything is threaded, but I'm pretty sure I have a good vacuum. If I unplug a vacuum line the engine runs completely different.

Anyway, when I was last in there running new brake lines and bleeding I still hadn't ever actually driven the truck and the discs were covered in rust. I was optimistic that it would all sand off once I started driving around a little (that's what my trailer does).

Here they are. My daughter says they look like Damascus brakes. I was thinking a little more like that hammertone finish.

So am I right to just buy new rotors at this point? Any recommendations? I was probably going to try and find AC Delco everything.

Also, ignore the missing bolts on the steering linkage. I'm trying to center the steering wheel.

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[Edelbrock]

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[CountKrunk]

Is it heavily pitted? It looks like it. I would change that ASAP

 

[Grit dog]

Ya those look pitted. Impressive. To be fair, they also look like new and could probably be turned. But I wouldn’t expect great performance out of old brake pads only catching 50-60% of the rotor surface.

 

[Chris64]

Is it heavily pitted? It looks like it. I would change that ASAP

Yup - and that's my plan. I guess my question was really: is it stupid to just replace them versus getting them resurfaced. And also is there a better brand or just stick with OEM? I always lean towards replace and OEM but it never hurts to ask people who might know more.

 

[CalSgt]

Is the groove in the rotor supposed to be there?

 

[fast 99]

grove is factory. Being captured rotors, given the time involved replace. Even if they are within spec and have enough material to machine, the end product will have less mass to absorb and dissipate heat.

 

[Grit dog]

Yup - and that's my plan. I guess my question was really: is it stupid to just replace them versus getting them resurfaced. And also is there a better brand or just stick with OEM? I always lean towards replace and OEM but it never hurts to ask people who might know more.

Time and money and intended use. Use that to guide every decision, especially as you’ve mentioned budget and this resto.
I’m cheap so if they were new and the pitting wasn’t too deep I’d consider turning them. Especially if they are or appear to be low mileage and quality /oe / made in USA. Iirc you drug this out of a barn. What are the chances it’s got cheap Chinesuim rotors vs quality from back in the day.