Hydraulic booster options

[waco-kid]

Hi, this is my first post here. I have a 1976 Chevy C30 SRW with a 454. I've been doing some work on the truck lately and I've run into an issue I've had some unexpected trouble with. My hydroboost unit has leaked power steering fluid into the cab. I pulled it off in hopes of turning it in for a core at the parts store, but I'm running into the issue of no one can get one. From my research, replacement hydraulic brake boosters from 1975-78 are quite rare. I understand they can be rebuilt, but I don't know much about that and none of the local mechanics want to do it. Is there any way to swap in a newer hydroboost unit from an 80s truck or something? Thanks in advance.

 

[fast 99]

Hydraulic lines are a different design. PS pump would also need to be changed and possibly master cylinder. If the push rod from brake pedal isn't staked it can be rebuilt. Problem will be finding someone to do it. I used a local business for rebuilding. However he has closed the shop and retired.

 

[hoagster]

Do a search for Hydro boost with your year make and model and you will find some aftermarket ways to fix it. Look at this thread the guy used a 1998 setup you'll find some part numbers and info of how what he used. It's not going to be easy or cheap if you were wanting a shop will do it. https://www.gmsquarebody.com/threads/new-build-finishing-up.48459/

 

[xm20k]

If you're looking for a new unit, the CPP one fits without messing around with bracketry

It's the one I'm running

Street Beast HydraStop Booster Assembly for 1973-87 Chevy Truck

1973-87 Chevy Truck Street Beast HydraStop booster assembly with direct mount bracket

classicperform.com

Comes with the correctly angled bracket for GM trucks.

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[ali_c20]

Welcome from Austria.
I would try to rebuild it. You can save hundreds of $. It can be done with basic hand tool, lots of lube, patience and swearing.
Search the internet and the forum for information.

 

[winfred]

i installed one for an 07 on my 78 c30 454, i swapped the firewall bracket and shortened the master's push rod to fit, and used this style adaptor for the hoses https://a.co/d/6S16OCD can't find the exact set of adapters i got, but it had 3 for less money, may've been borgison, pretty sure it was an LS swap

happed to have a new 07 and a 15 model in my stash (gm dealer mechanic/pack rat/project gatherer, they were freebies that the parts dept was chucking for no good reason other than inventory correction) so i had nothing to lose other than the brass adapter cost

 

[waco-kid]

It looks like Cardone still shows them as a direct replacement, but they're showing out of stock which I suppose means that they get some in every so often. I have found the rebuild kits for the booster unit, but like I said no one wants to do it. A few days ago, I looked at a booster for a 1985 C30 in the local parts store. It looked similar, but while the fittings were the same size they of a different type- I think o rings instead of flares. To me, the backside looked the same as the one from my '76 and the master cylinder flange measured out very close though it was difficult to tell because the push rod was protruding and blocking the dial caliper from taking that measurement. Also, the body behind the charge canister was shorter and I don't know if it makes a difference. It looks like OEM hydraulic brake boosters really aren't that expensive though that can probably add up. My thoughts are if I can get a hydraulic booster even from another generation, I would be willing to get another master cylinder, adapt hoses and just make it work somehow- if I can stay within bolt on, minimal fabrication and pretty much OEM parts. At that, I'm into whatever will reliably work without spending a bunch of money on a truck that's still a while from being roadworthy.

 

[HotWheelsBurban]

Hi, this is my first post here. I have a 1976 Chevy C30 SRW with a 454. I've been doing some work on the truck lately and I've run into an issue I've had some unexpected trouble with. My hydroboost unit has leaked power steering fluid into the cab. I pulled it off in hopes of turning it in for a core at the parts store, but I'm running into the issue of no one can get one. From my research, replacement hydraulic brake boosters from 1975-78 are quite rare. I understand they can be rebuilt, but I don't know much about that and none of the local mechanics want to do it. Is there any way to swap in a newer hydroboost unit from an 80s truck or something? Thanks in advance.

From my experience: probably the reason the local guys don't want to attempt to rebuild, is they're not familiar with the setup, and they don't want any potential for come-backs, especially on brakes, because of the potential liability if you have a brake failure. I've had a '97 C3500 Crew Cab for 3 1/2 years, and have had three replacement boosters on it in this time. Pushrod length is VERY critical on these as well because if this is not correct, the pushrod will bind as you drive the truck and heat it up, and then the brakes will start to self apply, making it extremely difficult to drive the truck without causing further damage. Some of the reman units need spacers and not all of the reman units that need them, get them. There are seal kits available though if you want to attempt a rebuild or have someone who is willing to try.