I have a couple of problems with my two trucks that I need solving. I know you guys like pictures, so I've got y'all covered.

The first is a brake issue with my '76 F-100 2wd with a 360 and C6.



Recently something went wrong in the brake system and I am unsure what else to do.

Here are the symptoms: If you're driving along and hit the brake pedal sometimes it goes all the way to the floor almost and you have to really stand on it to stop it. Other times it feels more or less normal. However, if it goes to the floor, if you pump the pedal once or twice it will go back to feeling like it has normal pressure and stopping power.

I have bled the front brakes and still had the same issue. Could this possibly be a power brake booster problem? If so, is there a way to check that it is malfunctioning?


The second issue is on my other truck. It is a '76 F-100 4x4 with a 428 and NP-435.



I had an issue with my track bar a few days ago. I believe the nut on the axle side of the track bar broke or fell off. The bar was still on the bolt but it was death wobbling pretty bad. I got it home and the next day replaced the track bar bushings on both ends, and got a new washer and lock nut to replace the one that was gone.

Now I know that new bushings in the track bar will make the steering tighter, but it is so tight that it feels almost like manual steering when you're not moving. It is tough to turn the wheels to park, ect. Is this normal until the bushings wear in a little? Or is there something else I need to check?

Thanks, Jay.

 

The brake issue sounds like a failing cup seal in the master cylinder. Rebuild or replace the master cylinder.

 

I agree, brake issue sounds like master cylinder is by-passing internally. Check the reservoir and if the fluid level is okay (ie you are not loosing pedal pressure due to external leak somewhere) it is time to replace the master cylinder.

Not sure what the issue is with your steering system on your other truck. I don't think replacing track bar bushings should affect your steering effort. Perhaps you can post a photo of what broke or was repaired.

Both look to be real nice trucks by the way! I bet that 4x4 with the 428 must be a lot of fun!!!

 

Got the issue on the 4x4 worked out. Flushed the power steering fluid and its working great now. And yep, it is quite fun with the 428. Another issue with it though, that I think I've got figured out is with the clutch. Press the pedal all the way to the floor and it makes almost a grinding, squealing noise. Throw out bearing is spinning is what I think it is? Let the pedal about 1" off of the floor and the noise goes away. I've got the clutch free play set at about 1 1/4". I've heard 1-1 1/2" is where it should be. So I don't think it is that. However, if I increase the free play to say 2 1/2" or 3" then that scratching noise goes away.

Any ideas?

Thanks, Jay.

 

X3 on the master cyl. for the brake issue . Mine did that a few years ago .

 

Clutch issue is an over adjusted linkage. Back it off just like you mentioned.

 

If I back it off, it has a ton of free play. So much that the pedal sometimes doesn't return up all the way. Is that ok? Too much free play will result in slippage, correct? What is the best way to feel it slipping? Change in motor RPM's at certain speeds?