Anybody running a hydra boost - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

makovai · 03-05-2006, 12:03 PM

I put a new 330 hp crate motor in last weekend,and i have too much cam for the power brake booster.

I grabbed a hydra boost out of about a 1985 diesel suburban yesturday, but b4 i fab this unit to my fire wall I wanted to see if anyone is running one and what issues i may have.

Thanks.

jhow66 · 03-05-2006, 12:23 PM

Did you change the cam in the 330? Have installed 2 of these without any vacumn problems.

makovai · 03-05-2006, 12:39 PM

No its the way it was from the factory.

How bout another thought. Is this booster too big? Does a smaller booster require less vacuum? And what this little filter looking gismo on the vacuum line?

Dude....do you have a 502 in your blazer?

jbon64 · 03-05-2006, 12:58 PM

the filtergizmothingy is a vapor filter . not sure if thats the correct name , it keeps the oil / gas fumes out of the booster

jbon64 · 03-05-2006, 01:00 PM

also ......gotta compliment you on the super clean engine compartment . very nice indeed

hotrodhomi · 03-05-2006, 01:02 PM

what is your RPM at idle?

makovai · 03-05-2006, 01:27 PM

I idle at about 600, however i have 456 gears so im doing 3K on the freeway. Not the greatest gas mileage. I have a ring and pinion for the fron of 410 but i still need a rear 410. Im not sure if thats what i want to do yet.

But some brakes would be nice, and to me it feels like its a vacuum issue.

Brakes are over rated they just slow you down.

hotrodhomi · 03-05-2006, 01:42 PM

have you checked your vacuum booster for leaks? Mine did this right before it went out for good. I think it had a small leak and at higher vacuum the brakes worked fine, but at lower vacuum it was not strong enough to overcome the leak.

**special-K** · 03-05-2006, 02:28 PM

If your booster and lines are all good,the hydro-boost is a great idea.I also have this set-up from a diesel Suburban and would like more info.Can you use the existing steering box or do you need a box from a hydro-boost.I,ve heard of people using the diesel vacuum pumps with the original vacuum-assist brakes.

makovai · 03-05-2006, 03:05 PM

I was told same steering box is ok, but you need a power steering pump that can accomadate the second unit.

**dennislbrooks** · 03-05-2006, 03:34 PM

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=175714

krue · 03-05-2006, 09:15 PM

Another thread for FAQ.

**dennislbrooks** · 03-05-2006, 09:26 PM

I did find out from a longtime mechanic that adding a hydroboost creates more load on the pump. Make sure to check your belt tightness even if it was OK before with just power steering. If belt slipping occurs, you will notice it most in the steering - like a hard stop and turning. He said that when a hydroboost goes bad -- usually chatters. I am sure we have some expert mechanics on here also that know more.

makovai · 03-05-2006, 10:28 PM

I was running the engine (choke on) about 1200RPMs i pulled the vacuum line off the booster and it stuck to my hand. I wonder if my booster is bad.

Chevrolet4x4s · 03-05-2006, 11:25 PM

There great lots more breaking strength.I would suggest it
Shane

LUV2XCLR8 · 03-05-2006, 11:30 PM

I need to follow this thread, my brakes suck also, and everything is new

makovai · 03-06-2006, 12:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LUV2XCLR8

I need to follow this thread, my brakes suck also, and everything is new

I just remember when i had my '73 blazer quite some time ago, when i stepped on the brakes hard it would put you through the windshield. And this '72 should have the same setup as a '73.

**Yukon Jack** · 03-06-2006, 06:27 PM

I'm using a hydroboost system from a 1989 1 ton Chevy pickup that had a 454.

Here is a link to info on my setup.

makovai · 03-06-2006, 07:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yukon Jack

I'm using a hydroboost system from a 1989 1 ton Chevy pickup that had a 454.

Here is a link to info on my setup.

Very cool...ok now i know it can be done.......How do you like it? Pro's and cons if you will.

**dennislbrooks** · 03-06-2006, 08:52 PM

Life is good. You might go with a little later model off a 3/4 --most will be metric ( can be dealt with) unless you stay down under 1980. My truck brakes very nicely. I do need to tighten my pump belt --something for tomorrow nite. I have no cons. Bleed brakes just like normal -- engine not running. Bleed steering second just like normal -- front lifted a little. My wifes 2004 Yukon has hyroboost and is a 5.3 gas. Getting the power steering fluid level correct takes a little patience. If your pedal does not return quickly it means your return is not right. Mine works fine. I took lessons from Yukon Jack.

**Yukon Jack** · 03-07-2006, 10:42 AM

I'm thoroughly impressed with my hydroboost setup but of course I was going from manual brakes to these so there was a vast improvement. I can't think of a single con other than it was a bit of work to get it all setup and you have more hoses under the hood. I used this setup because it was on the donor vehicle that I got the engine from. If it hadn't been for that, I'm sure I would have changed to just normal power brakes at some point.

Chevy Muscle · 03-07-2006, 02:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by makovai

Brakes are over rated they just slow you down.

LOL...

Do you mind if I steal your quote?

makovai · 03-07-2006, 02:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chevy Muscle

LOL...

Do you mind if I steal your quote?

lol.....knock yourself out....

If it aint broke............fix it till it is.

Burt4x4 · 03-07-2006, 04:09 PM

My brakes always sucked..no matter how much I adjust and bleed. My fix was to buy a Master/Booster setup for a 1972 K30. The 1ton boosters are 'double diaphram' type, were I guess the 1/2ton stuff is single diaphram. Anyway HUGE difference in braking power. I can actually lock up my tires now

before I had to stand on them and pray

that I would stop intime...
eaither upgrade is worth it...

ClassicStyle · 03-07-2006, 06:25 PM

have you tried stainless steal lines? or anyone for that matter, i need to pick me up a set.

-cameron

03-05-2006, 12:03 PM	#1
makovai Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: oregon city Posts: 335	Anybody running a hydra boost I put a new 330 hp crate motor in last weekend,and i have too much cam for the power brake booster. I grabbed a hydra boost out of about a 1985 diesel suburban yesturday, but b4 i fab this unit to my fire wall I wanted to see if anyone is running one and what issues i may have. Thanks. __________________ If it aint broke..............fix it till it is. www.fast77.com 1972 - 330 hp crate, 11" lift with 39x18 mickeys. 3/4 ton, cross steer, 4 wheel disc brakes 1996 Z71 w/ 35's

03-05-2006, 12:23 PM	#2
jhow66 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Knoxville Tenn. Posts: 3,058	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost Did you change the cam in the 330? Have installed 2 of these without any vacumn problems. __________________ 56 Chevy Bel-Air 2dr. HT (purchased new) 71 Chevy Cheyenne SWB PU (502HO) 65 GMC short bed step--work in progress and my gofer

03-05-2006, 12:39 PM	#3
makovai Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: oregon city Posts: 335	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost No its the way it was from the factory. How bout another thought. Is this booster too big? Does a smaller booster require less vacuum? And what this little filter looking gismo on the vacuum line? Dude....do you have a 502 in your blazer? __________________ If it aint broke..............fix it till it is. www.fast77.com 1972 - 330 hp crate, 11" lift with 39x18 mickeys. 3/4 ton, cross steer, 4 wheel disc brakes 1996 Z71 w/ 35's Last edited by makovai; 03-05-2006 at 12:42 PM.

03-05-2006, 12:58 PM	#4
jbon64 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: sidney , illinois Posts: 312	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost the filtergizmothingy is a vapor filter . not sure if thats the correct name , it keeps the oil / gas fumes out of the booster __________________ hey.....smell my finger 64 nova wagon , 63 nova convertible

03-05-2006, 01:00 PM	#5
jbon64 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: sidney , illinois Posts: 312	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost also ......gotta compliment you on the super clean engine compartment . very nice indeed __________________ hey.....smell my finger 64 nova wagon , 63 nova convertible

03-05-2006, 01:02 PM	#6
hotrodhomi Registered User Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Sacramento Posts: 3,737	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost what is your RPM at idle? __________________ '72 2wd blazer, bagged w/ watts link & EDC '72 C10 "Lowered Farm Truck" STOLEN 5-18-11 '66 impala ht

03-05-2006, 01:27 PM	#7
makovai Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: oregon city Posts: 335	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I idle at about 600, however i have 456 gears so im doing 3K on the freeway. Not the greatest gas mileage. I have a ring and pinion for the fron of 410 but i still need a rear 410. Im not sure if thats what i want to do yet. But some brakes would be nice, and to me it feels like its a vacuum issue. Brakes are over rated they just slow you down. __________________ If it aint broke..............fix it till it is. www.fast77.com 1972 - 330 hp crate, 11" lift with 39x18 mickeys. 3/4 ton, cross steer, 4 wheel disc brakes 1996 Z71 w/ 35's

03-05-2006, 01:42 PM	#8
hotrodhomi Registered User Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Sacramento Posts: 3,737	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost have you checked your vacuum booster for leaks? Mine did this right before it went out for good. I think it had a small leak and at higher vacuum the brakes worked fine, but at lower vacuum it was not strong enough to overcome the leak. __________________ '72 2wd blazer, bagged w/ watts link & EDC '72 C10 "Lowered Farm Truck" STOLEN 5-18-11 '66 impala ht

03-05-2006, 02:28 PM	#9
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,851	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost If your booster and lines are all good,the hydro-boost is a great idea.I also have this set-up from a diesel Suburban and would like more info.Can you use the existing steering box or do you need a box from a hydro-boost.I,ve heard of people using the diesel vacuum pumps with the original vacuum-assist brakes. __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

03-05-2006, 03:05 PM	#10
makovai Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: oregon city Posts: 335	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I was told same steering box is ok, but you need a power steering pump that can accomadate the second unit. __________________ If it aint broke..............fix it till it is. www.fast77.com 1972 - 330 hp crate, 11" lift with 39x18 mickeys. 3/4 ton, cross steer, 4 wheel disc brakes 1996 Z71 w/ 35's Last edited by makovai; 03-05-2006 at 03:06 PM.

03-05-2006, 03:34 PM	#11
dennislbrooks Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Williamsburg, Ohio Posts: 1,798	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=175714

03-05-2006, 09:15 PM	#12
krue Designated A-hole! Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: South Mississippi Posts: 36,448	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost Another thread for FAQ. __________________ "If it ain't broke, fix it 'til it is!" Being stupid ain't illegal. We're Still Debt Free Except for the House!!! www.daveramsey.com 70 GMC SWB Stepside project "Green Booger" soon to be 6.0l/4l80e 93 S-10 "Poppaw's Truck"

03-05-2006, 09:26 PM	#13
dennislbrooks Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Williamsburg, Ohio Posts: 1,798	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I did find out from a longtime mechanic that adding a hydroboost creates more load on the pump. Make sure to check your belt tightness even if it was OK before with just power steering. If belt slipping occurs, you will notice it most in the steering - like a hard stop and turning. He said that when a hydroboost goes bad -- usually chatters. I am sure we have some expert mechanics on here also that know more.

03-05-2006, 10:28 PM	#14
makovai Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: oregon city Posts: 335	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I was running the engine (choke on) about 1200RPMs i pulled the vacuum line off the booster and it stuck to my hand. I wonder if my booster is bad. __________________ If it aint broke..............fix it till it is. www.fast77.com 1972 - 330 hp crate, 11" lift with 39x18 mickeys. 3/4 ton, cross steer, 4 wheel disc brakes 1996 Z71 w/ 35's

03-05-2006, 11:25 PM	#15
Chevrolet4x4s Registered User Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: WV Posts: 227	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost There great lots more breaking strength.I would suggest it Shane __________________ 1993 K1500 350 5 speed 1985 K10 Silverado Vortec 406 5 speed (in body shop) "I been drivin' this '85 pickup truck Them buddies of mine call it a bucket of rust She's a little beat up but she still runs like the wind Yeah, kinda like me I been banged and bruisedBeen around the block a time or two But I'm runnin' like new goin' places I never been No, I ain't broke I'm just broken in" 1963 Dodge Townwagon(its amazng what 30 years and zero miles will do to a vehicle ) Member#20327



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03-05-2006, 11:30 PM	#16
LUV2XCLR8 The LuvShack Garage Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Maple Grove, TN (West Side) Posts: 30,468	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I need to follow this thread, my brakes suck also, and everything is new __________________ Owner/Op: "TN Classic Transport Carriers" The Toy: "Square Vette" 72 Hybrid Blazer Toy Barn: "LuvShack" 40 x 60 x 20 Shop Tow Piggy:"Maddy" 88 Silverado 3500 Hauler: "Feathers" 14 Aluma 8218T

03-06-2006, 06:27 PM	#18
Yukon Jack Post Whore Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Rose Hill, KS, USA Posts: 12,686	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I'm using a hydroboost system from a 1989 1 ton Chevy pickup that had a 454. Here is a link to info on my setup. __________________ 1970 Blazer with a 400 sbc and 4" lift 1980 Pontiac Trans Am, 455 Oldsmobile 2012 Kawasaki Concours 14

03-06-2006, 08:52 PM	#20
dennislbrooks Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Williamsburg, Ohio Posts: 1,798	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost Life is good. You might go with a little later model off a 3/4 --most will be metric ( can be dealt with) unless you stay down under 1980. My truck brakes very nicely. I do need to tighten my pump belt --something for tomorrow nite. I have no cons. Bleed brakes just like normal -- engine not running. Bleed steering second just like normal -- front lifted a little. My wifes 2004 Yukon has hyroboost and is a 5.3 gas. Getting the power steering fluid level correct takes a little patience. If your pedal does not return quickly it means your return is not right. Mine works fine. I took lessons from Yukon Jack. Last edited by dennislbrooks; 03-06-2006 at 08:52 PM.

03-07-2006, 10:42 AM	#21
Yukon Jack Post Whore Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Rose Hill, KS, USA Posts: 12,686	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost I'm thoroughly impressed with my hydroboost setup but of course I was going from manual brakes to these so there was a vast improvement. I can't think of a single con other than it was a bit of work to get it all setup and you have more hoses under the hood. I used this setup because it was on the donor vehicle that I got the engine from. If it hadn't been for that, I'm sure I would have changed to just normal power brakes at some point. __________________ 1970 Blazer with a 400 sbc and 4" lift 1980 Pontiac Trans Am, 455 Oldsmobile 2012 Kawasaki Concours 14

03-07-2006, 04:09 PM	#24
Burt4x4 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2000 Location: Modesto, CA Posts: 1,842	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost My brakes always sucked..no matter how much I adjust and bleed. My fix was to buy a Master/Booster setup for a 1972 K30. The 1ton boosters are 'double diaphram' type, were I guess the 1/2ton stuff is single diaphram. Anyway HUGE difference in braking power. I can actually lock up my tires now before I had to stand on them and pray that I would stop intime... eaither upgrade is worth it... __________________ 1972 K5 MPFI454/Sm465/Np205/D60/14FFd/Re-Centerd H1s w/Swamper Iroks

03-07-2006, 06:25 PM	#25
ClassicStyle Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Scottsdale, AZ Posts: 215	Re: Anybody running a hydra boost have you tried stainless steal lines? or anyone for that matter, i need to pick me up a set. -cameron __________________ 1972 Dark blue, Cst, Highlander

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