Is there a way of upgrading the brakes on a 1970 500L without going to all the expense of discs?

I've got 126 drums and wheels, stops ok.

Can you tell the difference to the standard system?

If you fit 'Mk 1' (594cc) 126 brakes the wheel bolt pcd is the same as a 500 '190'----if you fit Mk2 brakes (652c) the wheel pcd changes to the standard Fiat patter of '98' The 126 brakes are slightly bigger than the 500, and the front bearings (especially from the Mk2) are quite a bit bigger. You can retain the same master cylinder, but make sure that you get GOOD brake shoes---some of the cheaper variety have thinner than original linings which makes it difficult to get a good brake pedal. Also, if possible retain the original brake springs; as various people have noticed (suffered?), the new springs are slightly shorter, which makes them 'stronger' when extended, which makes them pull the brake shoes back too far, again making it difficult to get a good pedal. Until I fitted front discs onto my 500 (which is a tad faster than standard) I had Mk2 126 brakes fitted and they were perfectly adequate.

I was going to upgrade my 500 L ( with 650 engine ) but after adjusting properly and bedding in they are fine .I can even drop the front on braking and have locked them up once at about 15 mph. I even bought a mounting plate but I will not bother now.

Thanks guys. Very useful information all round

I'm not clear on this, but does a larger master cylinder add anything to the mix (such as the dual circuit conversion)? I've fitted one on one of my 500's (it's not finished yet so can't try it), i'd kinda made the assumption that a larger cylinder / piston / displacement would translate into more pressure behind the shoes??

I had a premium conversion from Axel, but didn't think it looked right underneath.