The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline Frame mounted brake booster

I've been looking at a frame mounted brake booster for the 51 and noticed a "transmission crossmember may have to be modified" warning. This the CCP/Classic parts unit. Does anyone have experience with this unit? Tried several serches but no luck with this.

Jim

mine had the same warning, but my 57 already had a new trans cross member installed, so my booster bolted right up.

leonard

On the 51 I'm sticking with the 6 and stick so a bolt in for the original is what I'd like to find.

Jim

Bought mine from CCP and it has worked out well.
http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2374147040099708909RtRbDt

The problem with CCP parts isn't how well they work once you get them installed... getting them installed is the problem. Be prepared to have your patience tried by defective parts, vague instructions and non-existent customer support.

We had a list of problems a mile long doing the conversion on my '51 and I wrote a letter and sent e-mails asking for comments or help and got zilch for my efforts.

Here is the letter I wrote to them and am still waiting for a reply:

Dear sir,

My mechanic recently completed the installation of your Disk Brake Conversion #4759DBK-6 on my 1951 Chevrolet 1/2 ton pick up. I am writing with a couple suggestions to improve your instruction sheet, and to complain about the problems we encountered with some parts.

I would suggest that you make the following two revisions to your instructions:
1. Indicate the correct position of the offset of the Caliper Mounting Bracket. The instructions make no mention of this and if you guess wrong you have to remove the hub to correct the problem.
2. You should mention that the Steering Link spacers should be removed. There is no mention of this and again, if you do not do this you must remove the hub to correct the problem.

The following is a list of problems we experienced with the parts:
1. The aluminum spacer holes did not align with the hub from the front brakes causing misalignment and runout in the front wheels. A larger hole should be considered.
2. The brake actuator rod on the Power Brake Booster #4754BB is too long. I must be cut and rethreaded to fit.
3. The Master Cylinder bracket is not correct for this vehicle. It hits the cross member and must be modified to mount securely.
4. Both the master cylinder and proportioning valve leaked around the plugs that were already installed.
5. Both rotors were warped and had to be turned. You should suggest to turn the rotor assembly after it is assembled to allow for smooth braking.

I feel that the omissions in the Instructions, although frustrating, do not affect the quality of the conversion. However the defects in the master cylinder, proportioning valve and rotors, as well as the other problems encountered do not speak very highly of the quality of this kit or your quality control standards.

Furthermore these defects added almost $200 to the cost of installation by a 26 year Master ASE Certified Technician with 33 years race car and street rod building experience.

Once installed the braking is dramatically improved but the problems one can expect to encounter would not make your products something that I would recommend. 

Hopefully your customer service will redeem you and therefore your comments are anticipated.

I used a frame mounted MC from the old Chevy Duty,that has worked out very good. Only problem is when you have to add brake fluid,it is right up against the floor. However there is a squeeze bottle included which makes the job fairly easy.

From what I've been finding the frame mount power brake systems are designed for use with the auto transmissions. If used with the original manual a different or modified crossmember will be needed. This information is buried in the tech sheet or installation instructions at some vendors others have no mention of the "exceptions".

Woody, thanks for sharing your education.

Dale did you use the manual dual chamber master?

Jim

Perhaps we should try [email protected] who is in Asheville, N.C. They are in the business and as I understand it they actually do some of the actual building or working on rods in house? I called about a booster set up for my 52 panel. I got a lady on the line who DEFINITELY knew what she was talking about. A set up for my 52 panel was $199 and it included all the brackets and brake pedal. I have a feeling that they have built many and is savy about what you need. Give them a call and talk to them and be sure to let them know you are using manual tranny. I bet they can help. 866-601-4455

I also had a multitude of things not lining up on truck #2 not too long ago. The holes did not line up and the I had a hell of a time getting the booster lining up so the pedal shaft would line up with the hole in the cab...I found a new language during installation of the "bolt right in" power booster unit. I even had not even installed the fenders and motor at that point.

PATIENCE MY MAN
Steve

Thanks for the replies. I was out of town for a couple of days so haven't spent any time checking with vendors. I'll post what I find out.
Jim