The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline opinions on 1/2 ton 4 wheel disc brake setup

hello, I have asked some of these question before, but with varying results, so I would like to pose similar questions and seek others input and opinions. I will be going four wheel disc brakes on my 53 half ton, and retaining the stock pedals. what are opinions about power vs. manual brakes? I am leaning toward power lately, but some say they can be too touchy. what bore diameter m/c should I use for power? how about manual? I've heard 1" for manual and 1 1/8" for power. should I use residual pressure valves being the m/c will be under the floor? and finally, should I use a prop valve for 4 wheel disc brakes? thanks for any help

If your master is below the calipers then you need a residual valve. There is no residual valve on the stock system and its under the floor. If your dropping the truck then you may have to. By dropping I mean where the master is below the calipers
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Yes disc/disc prop valve.

I use power with 1.125" or 1.5" masters. Power or manual is your choice but if you do manual then 1" is the largest size I'd use.

There may be some fitment issues with a booster larger than 7" using the stock pedals. You may have to modify the rear engine cross member.

There is a residual valve on the stock system.

I just ordered parts from speedway. 8" dual diaphragm power brake booster with dual chamber master cylinder (1 1/8"). Two 2 lb. RPV's and an adjustable prop valve. I am going to make a bracket that will mount the m/c booster to the existing framework. I'll have to make a slightly longer push rod to connect the pedal to the m/c and I'll have to modify the trans crossmember, if not remove it altogether.

I am about to do the same with my 1950 1/2. It will be 4 wheel disk. Where in Canada can a guy find the 7" brake booster and master cylinder for under the floor? With running a SBC and a 700r4, will a guy have placement issues or even exhaust issues with the master and booster mounted in the stock location?

i just finished with the speedway kit and i used there brakets with the stock pedal and it went in with no modifications and a great value. i think the pedal/bracket kit was only $75. WORTH IT!!