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So I have a 73 F100, 302 small block, 2WD base model. I've already made up my mind on going with a Redhat steering gear box. Seemed to be the best aftermarket unit out there and did a bunch of research so that is pretty much done. My question is really 2 fold from after that point. Looking for any recommendations on a good PS pump unit AND is it worth it to get one with the extra port for the brake booster? Right now I don't have a power brakes and thinking I can just add the brake booster but need a vacuum source. Is this a good way to go (hydroboost)?
Guess I may not be educated enough on this. Doing some more reading, the hydroboost option is much different type of booster than just a standard brake booster like I was thinking and seems to be more costly as well. I would still like to hear anyone's opinion on a great PS pump. I may wait till later to covert from manual brakes to a power brakes...might just have to see how well they work.
At least you found out now the difference before buying parts.
Note there is a difference between power and non-power brake pedals between the pivot and where and pin is for the booster / master rod hook up.
At least on all the power to non-power (race car) and non-power to power (car and a truck).
The cars were AMC's and the truck my 81 F100 flare side I dont see why yours would be any different.
Dave ----
I vote for all three. Saginaw, Redhead gearbox, and hydroboost. I did all three on my truck.
You asked about an extra port on the Saginaw PS pump. If someone offers a pump reservoir with a second port for low pressure return, that would be nice. I found out that T'ing into the existing return line isn't a good idea. I got a lot of back pressure. So I added a bulkhead -6AN fitting to the pump reservoir, and ran the hydroboost return to it, instead of T'ing it into the gearbox return line. That cured the back pressure problem. I posted a thread on this.
This photo shows the hole I put in the reservoir. And the -6AN bulkhead fitting laying next to it. I ended up not using that 3/8" nipple fitting.
This one shows everything after final installation. I made up a braided stainless return line, and added an inline filter. It would have been easier to just use that 3/8" fitting and a rubber hose.
Wow Mike, that really looks awesome. Something to consider. As far as Redhead, I really like their re-worked steering gear with the improved needle bearings. This is just going to be my daily driver for a while, throw junk in the back - not a show truck but I do plan on giving it to my grandson in a decade or so so I am looking to have some forethought into what can I do right now as its all apart that will set the future up with safety as well as functionality and low maint in mind towards that goal. it'll be a good first "beater" for him - little 302 hopped up a bit - 350HP but easily enough to add some more horse as I'll be using a forged rotating assembly, switch out cam and heads and be north of 400 easy..throw some nitrous and well then we are talking...ha...its all being done with an eye on practicality and future improvements.
blue top is a great box and rebuilt the same way, don't know difference in price, if you did not purchase your red yet. just saying.
I'm happy with mine.
Wow Mike, that really looks awesome. Something to consider. As far as Redhead, I really like their re-worked steering gear with the improved needle bearings. This is just going to be my daily driver for a while, throw junk in the back - not a show truck but I do plan on giving it to my grandson in a decade or so so I am looking to have some forethought into what can I do right now as its all apart that will set the future up with safety as well as functionality and low maint in mind towards that goal. it'll be a good first "beater" for him - little 302 hopped up a bit - 350HP but easily enough to add some more horse as I'll be using a forged rotating assembly, switch out cam and heads and be north of 400 easy..throw some nitrous and well then we are talking...ha...its all being done with an eye on practicality and future improvements.
Yep, do it a little at a time. I did. I installed the Redhead box first. That was a major improvement, both in drivability and safety. I've since installed Redhead boxes in two of my Jeeps. I love 'em! A couple years later, I installed the Saginaw pump. This was a huge improvement over the Ford pump. And then I installed the hydroboost. I knew it'd be better than a vacuum booster, but I wasn't prepared for how much better it was. The first time I touched the brake pedal, I thought the cab was gonna launch off the frame.
All you 4WD yuckety-yucks giving us 2WDs a hard time. Sheesh. 😂. My saginaw pump set up is shown below.
A few years ago, I finally admitted to myself that it's a weakness. I fear being in a 2wd vehicle, and getting into a situation that requires 4wd to get out of. Which is pretty common where I live.
Your bracket and pump look exactly like mine. Wild Horses?
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