Hanging Brake Pedals in a 48-52
 

I'd like to convert from a floor mounted master cylinder to one I can mount on the firewall in my 48 F3 pickup. I'm sure others have done this. Is there room in the engine compartment for a small power brake booster and dual master cylinder using a small block engine? What seems to work best as far as a pedal assembly? I'd prefer to stay away from kits and use a salvage yard pedal assembly if possible. Is reinforcing necessary for the firewall? Is there some reference point I can use on the firewall to determine where to locate the master cylinder? I'll be using a GM tilt column and probably 67-72 Ford Master cylinder. Is there a particular small booster that fits this cylinder that would take up less space. I've heard that Fairmont boosters might work. Any comments appreciated.

Hanging Brake Pedals in a 48-52
 

Vern, There is a good tech article by John Niolon at this link. You may have already read it. I realize you have a 48 model truck but some of it would probably still apply. https://www.ford-trucks.com/articles/pedals/index.html

Hanging Brake Pedals in a 48-52
 

Vern

Find a hanging pedal and booster combination that works for your truck. Then buy a master cylinder (MC) to fit it. MCs are very cheap at the discount parts houses. Don't force yourself to build the truck around a used MC you happen to have laying around. 79-93 Mustang is another option for you. I use a mid seventies Ford van in my 53. It works OK but the booster could certainly be smaller. I would do the Mustang if I had it to do again.

'fenders

Hanging Brake Pedals in a 48-52
 

Tom,

That's a great article by John. I think my 48 will be much the same as his 53. Thanks for the tip. I do plan to use a new Master cylinder...probably a Mustang.

Hanging Brake Pedals in a 48-52
 

I used a petal assembly out of an Aerostar bacause it is has a cast aluminuim mount that can bolt right to the firewall without welding and and has a large area for support. I didn't rienforce my firewall but a little would be nice. It also fits with a 390 under the hood, I positioned mine as close to the engine as possible but there's plenty of room for it to move further out.Oo.

Hanging Brake Pedals in a 48-52