How hard is it to hook up hydroboost brakes?

[2wd73blazer]

I have a 3500 with hydroboost brakes that I am putting a lq9 in. How hard is it to get hooked up and working right?

[BR3W CITY]

Its pretty easy to put in place, the only difficult parts are; making custom lines (if you don't want to adapt a stock style line), and fine tuning the relationship with the steering/brakes/engine.

The thing I've seen the most is issues related to the sensitivity of the steering. Its correctable, but identifying the exact problem is the tricky part. When you start combining different types of hydraulic fluid pumps and orifices, its hard to know what "correct" feels like...if that makes any sense.

Also, its worth telling your tuner that you'll be running HB, as there is a much higher static load on the engine and you can actually stall yourself out from the drag in the correct situation (deceleration from an off ramp, or turning while braking are the two where I see it happen). Easily fixable, but annoying and scary the first time it happens.

[LeesTruk]

Is the steering pump the cause of the sensitivity, or maybe a restriction needed in the hydraboost return line?

[BR3W CITY]

Originally Posted by LeesTruk

Is the steering pump the cause of the sensitivity, or maybe a restriction needed in the hydraboost return line?

We have another ongoing thread in another section on the topic. There are residual pressure valves and a fluid orifice, and the issue is finding the right combination of that, and the gear itself. The feel with the gear will always be a little different than the rack n pinion, but it should be close enough.

Mine is plenty useable, but admittadly a bit touchy when you consider I only run a 13" steering wheel. Its one of the things I'm working on this summer.

Oh, and running a line lock makes it even weirder because its an artificial dead-head to the fluid and can generate heat if your not careful.