Brake and Body Parts

Stopping Power: Essential Brake Upgrades for Pontiac Muscle Cars at Butler Performance

While the original drum and single-piston disc brakes were adequate for stock power levels, they are no match for today’s street or track demands. Butler Performance addresses this safety and performance gap by offering crucial components from top manufacturers like Wilwood Brakes, along with unique Butler-designed accessories.

Modern Caliper and Component Upgrades

One of the most significant performance gains comes from replacing the factory brake calipers with high-performance aluminum units.

• Wilwood D52 Caliper Upgrade Kits: Butler Performance features Wilwood forged aluminum, 2-piston D52 calipers as a direct bolt-on replacement for the factory original single-piston calipers found on many 1968 and later Pontiac cars. These calipers utilize stainless steel pistons and high-temperature seals, eliminating the rust and pitting issues common with OE cast iron units.

  • Benefits: Reduced unsprung weight, improved high-temperature reliability, and consistent response for both street and track use. They are available in finishes like black or red powder coat.

• Stainless Braided Brake Hoses: The selection also includes Wilwood Stainless Braided Brake Hose Upgrade Kits. These lines prevent the expansion that occurs in rubber hoses under high pressure, ensuring a firmer, more consistent brake pedal feel.

Enhancing Power Brake Assistance

For muscle cars with large-duration camshafts—a common feature in Butler Performance engine builds—engine vacuum can drop significantly, compromising the performance of the power brake booster. Butler Performance offers solutions to restore and enhance brake assist:

• Dual 9" Brake Booster: Butler Performance offers a modern Dual 9" Brake Booster design which provides up to 30% more vacuum assist. This is essential for vehicles with high-performance camshafts that do not produce enough vacuum for the factory booster to operate effectively.

• Electric Vacuum Pump Kits: For extreme camshaft applications or other options that require a dependable vacuum source (like hideaway headlights), an Electric Vacuum Pump Kit is available. These kits ensure the power brake system and other vacuum-dependent accessories operate reliably regardless of engine vacuum.

Brake Upgrades for Peace of Mind

The components offered through Butler Performance, particularly those from a brand like Wilwood, are designed for:

• Increased Reliability: Replacing old, heavy cast iron parts with forged aluminum significantly increases durability and reduces maintenance.

• Superior Heat Management: Performance-grade pistons and seals are engineered to handle the higher heat generated during aggressive street driving or track use.

• Direct Fitment: Many of the calipers and booster kits are designed for direct bolt-on installation, making the upgrade process straightforward for the home mechanic or professional shop.

By prioritizing stopping power alongside horsepower, Butler Performance provides a complete solution for the Pontiac enthusiast looking to maximize the safety, control, and overall driving experience of their classic muscle car.