Hello everyone, I would like to attempt to install my own brake lines in the next week or so, on my project. still have the cab and bed off. It's easier on me to bend over than crawl under! 351, c6, Rear drums, front discs. Planning on 7"booster duel master on firewall for clearance.I thought I could run the line from back wheels to front and leave it long till cab is set.. I need to know what size line to run to drums, 1/4" or 3/16"? What kind of brake switch do you use, mechanical or hytraulic? Thanks, larry

 

The original lines on your F3 were all 1/4", but most modern stuff is all 3/16". I'm fairly certain that's what your front disk conversion is going to want and the ports on the upgraded master cylinder will be sized for 3/16" also. The drums on the rear will determine what you need going back there. If you're still running the original axle, then the ports on the wheel cylinders are going to be sized for 1/4". If that is the case, then I believe that I would run 3/16" from the master down the frame to the hose and use a 3/16-1/4" adapter in the hose fitting. You can run 1/4" from the tee out to the rear wheels from there. If you've swapped to a more modern axle, then the wheel cylinders are likely going to be set up for 3/16" lines.

The brake light switch is personal preference. The hydraulic switches make for a cleaner installation, but they are notorious for failure. Spend the extra time and money getting a high quality name brand switch if you go hydraulic. I've read where a few guys have sourced them from their local Harley Davidson dealer as Harley still uses a hydraulic switch on their rear brakes. The mechanical switches tend to live longer if you don't mind mounting and adjusting them.

 

here's a little info on hydraulic vs mechanical switches... see my post about my mechanical install

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ke-switch.html


there is also a lot of info behind YouTube on this
john

 

Hey fellas, thanks for your input. blue oval rage, you were spot on. It's a 9"rear end and m2 front . I'm going to run all 3/16". Jninion, I read your thread and admire your solution.I am going to try using a painless hydraulic switch first, merely 'cause it's hard for me to get under the dash! I'm glad there are guys like you who know what you're doing to help guys like me who don't! Thanks again, Larry