Put power to manual drums

[scottbaxley]

I just completed a power addition to my manual drum brakes on a 1969 c-10. Many things on these trucks are a straight across bolt-on. This is also the case, but be aware of brackets/actuator rod needed for the swap!

1. Remove old master cyl. from firewall, remove actuator rod from brake pedal. You may use the same master cyl. It will fit exactly the same on the power booster. No cutting of lines is necessary. Just straighten, push, pull until everything lines up-be CAREFUL not to break anything!!!
2. If you are using a new master cyl., remove lines at cyl, and use bleeders provided. Mount the cyl. to the booster studs, and have a helper pump the brake pedal slowly. The lines connect to the bleeders, and are placed into the fluid of the cyl. Connect both lines and put ends into fluid, but focus on one at a time. As a helper depresses the pedal, the air will be forced through the tube. Pinch the tube with pliers BEFORE the pedal is released to prevent air from being sucked back. After the pedal is released, fluid will fill the tube. Release the pliers, and depress the pedal again, watching the level of the fluid. Pinch the tube with pliers, and release. Continue until no air is present. Do the other side.
2. Mount the bracket to the exiting studs that mounted the master cyl. to the firewall. Mount the power booster to the bracket. NOTE: bracket will RAISE the booster/master cyl. from original location about 2" for clearance of automatic shifter. Connect actuator rod to pedal, allowing about 1/2" of play. This can be adjusted later.
3. Find a vacuum port-either in back of carb, or off of intake manifold, and use a 3/8" barb fitting. Connect a heavy-wall 3/8" vacuum hose between vacuum source and booster check valve.
4. Start engine and test for the amount of pedal travel. This should be no more than 1" before pressure is felt.
5. BEFORE YOU DRIVE: THE MANUAL BRAKES TOOK CONSIDERABLE FORCE TO WORK-POWER DOES NOT!!!! BE SURE THAT YOU GET THE FEEL OF THE NEW BRAKES BEFORE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC!!!!!

[Shyguy]

Thank you for posting your experience making your manual drum brakes power brakes. My son did the same on his wife's 69 C-10 and it sure does take some getting use to.