The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Huck brake wheel and master cylinder diagram

I am working on the brakes on the old 49 which hasn't run in who knows how long. I have pulled the wheels and wheel cylinders as well as the master. Trying to decide to rebuild myself or buy new cylinders.

Anybody have access to electronic version of Huck 1949 Chevy wheel and master cylinder diagram, exploded view?

Thanks!

Dave

Thanks for the link!

Why is there so much opinion that it's better to buy new than rebuild brake cylinders?

Do the people who hold this opinion think they are not capable of doing a good job with the rebuild? I would think if you do it right, and make sure there are no problems with cylinders wall pitting, etc. there should be confidence in the outcome.

I would be interested in hearing more details other than "your money or your life" arguments....

I agree, that if you feel confindent in rebuilding them yourself, to go ahead. I got new for my truck since I didn't know if or when they had been done before. Also, I only paid 14.50 each for the wheel cylinders, so it wasn't a huge price difference between kits and new. I just wanted to start out with a totally brand new brake system.

Where did you get wheel cylinders for $14??

Chevy Duty wants $35 and Carter wants $48!!

NAPA wants $18 just for rebuild kits!!!

Assuming you've got wheel cylinders and/or a master cylinder that's not pitted, rebuilding is OK. We did it for many years, before ambulance-chasing lawyers got into the act. Most professional shops just won't take the liability risk of rebuilding brake parts, because the parts manufacturers have got deeper pockets in case of a lawsuit. If new parts are available, I'd rather use them, especially on the old single-line brake systems where even one failed part results in a total loss of brakes. When the choice is between rebuliding a part that's 50+ years old, or using a new one, I'll err on the side of caution every time.
Jerry

I have to agree with you Ralphy, keeping your brake system adjusted and checked out is your responsibility. I had a 1922 American Lafrance fire engine that I drove for 20 years that had two rear wheel mechanical brakes. This was a 7 ton vehicle. Never had a problem, but I never over drove it and always checked and maintained the brake system. Which included a working emergency brake!

Dave49 Here is what I would recomend. Try to rebuild the fronts. The fronts have the adjusters built into them and because of this they are more expensive to replace. If you can't clen them up (too pitted or unable to disassemble) buy from one of the venders listed on the vender page. As for the back if you don't mind vary slightly from stock I can tell you how to ger rear wc for around $10-15 each. Just send me an email and I will explain it in detail. Now what ever you decide to do remember this, if you go with new parts NEVER throw out your old ones. You may need to do another brake overhaul one day and Parts might not be available. Stainless Steel Sleeving then become a very attractive option.

Good luck