Hello,

I have searched the forums, and found a few very good and detailed write ups on upgrading the brake booster unit on a 79 f-150 to one from a 79 f-350 . It seems all of them upgrade the entire braking system (booster, master, calipers, and cylinders) as a part of the swap, to use the larger diameter system all the way around. Has anybody done just the booster/master swap? This truck stops very well. The only reason we want to use the f-350 booster is so that it won't hit the valve cover of the 6.9 diesel that we have swapped into it. Since the brakes are working well otherwise, it would be great use just the booster/master, but not if it leaves us with questionable brakes. Any experiences you can share are appreciated.

BTW, it is a f-150 short bed with no intention of trailering, etc.

 

I did the booster/mc swap without brakes first. It doesn't increase braking power much just makes the pedal easier to push. Later did the wheel cylinders and tbird calipers and it makes a slight difference in braking. Its been so long ago I don't remember the stock brake system to well.

 

Thanks, that's what I was hoping for. Right now, to clear the 6.9 diesel valve covers, we had to use a 3" body lift. My 50+ year old self would have a much easier time getting in without the lift. It sounds as if this could allow that, without sacrificing braking.

 

Have you considered a hydroboost system? It would give you the space needed by the valve covers and increase braking pressure. I installed one on my truck and it made a huge difference.

 

We did thanks. It seems that might be overkill in this particular case. I can pretty nearly go through the windshield, as it is. As a result, I am looking for cheap and easy as compared to brake improvement, otherwise, I would consider it in a heartbeat.