The Ford Barn

WHN · 09-29-2020, 11:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by warhorseracing

Tell your son that every ten years or more he will be replacing rusted brake lines, fixing leaking wheel cylinders, and master cylinders on a more regular basis. The Model A brakes from the factory will still work the same today as when the car was parked 60 + years ago.

I like this one. I once drove a car out of barn in upstate New York that had been there since the end of WW2. New battery, air in tires, and gas was all that was needed. Didn’t touch the brakes for 15 years. Ran and drove great.

Enjoy.

denis4x4 · 09-29-2020, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by warhorseracing

Tell your son that every ten years or more he will be replacing rusted brake lines, fixing leaking wheel cylinders, and master cylinders on a more regular basis. The Model A brakes from the factory will still work the same today as when the car was parked 60 + years ago.

I’m still trying to figure out what I’m doing wrong after 25 years and 3 hydraulic brake conversions on my Model A’s. Help me here; no leaky lines or wheel cylinders, does not pull side to side when brakes are applied and parts are available at NAPA. So, what am I doing wrong?

KGBnut · 09-29-2020, 02:17 PM

The only advantages to hydraulics is fewer points to introduce play in the system, and no need to balance the brakes as carefully.

When all these folks are telling you about a "properly set up system" it sometimes comes off as complicated. It really isn't. It is inspection, a few adjustments, and occasionally, replacing a few parts. For me, it was one Saturday with Pop standing over my shoulder. And we had a great day together. After that, I adjust the brakes once or twice a year, a put a blob of grease at each joint/knuckle.

I now understand my braking system much better as a result (and trust it more).

Most of it you would have to do if you did the conversion anyway.

Ken

Dick M · 09-29-2020, 02:24 PM

I am perfectly happy with mechanical brakes on my 31 coupe.

It will cost you in the $2,000 neighborhood to convert to juice brakes.

You will need some good advice and a good vendor to help you accomplish a mechanical rebuild. I suggest you get in contact with Randy Gross @714-292-8660. He is an expert on Model A brakes and he also sells brake shoes and drums as well. He can do it all; press in hubs, arch shoes, and set you up for success. Many folks here on Ford Bard have worked with him, me included, and found Randy most helpful and knowledgeable. Best of luck on what ever you decide.

09-29-2020, 02:17 PM	#23
KGBnut Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Southwestern Connecticut Posts: 931	Re: Brake Conversion? Or not. The only advantages to hydraulics is fewer points to introduce play in the system, and no need to balance the brakes as carefully. When all these folks are telling you about a "properly set up system" it sometimes comes off as complicated. It really isn't. It is inspection, a few adjustments, and occasionally, replacing a few parts. For me, it was one Saturday with Pop standing over my shoulder. And we had a great day together. After that, I adjust the brakes once or twice a year, a put a blob of grease at each joint/knuckle. I now understand my braking system much better as a result (and trust it more). Most of it you would have to do if you did the conversion anyway. Ken __________________ Style beats speed any day, and with a lot fewer tickets.

09-29-2020, 02:24 PM	#24
Dick M Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Ukiah, CA Posts: 477	Re: Brake Conversion? Or not. I am perfectly happy with mechanical brakes on my 31 coupe. It will cost you in the $2,000 neighborhood to convert to juice brakes. You will need some good advice and a good vendor to help you accomplish a mechanical rebuild. I suggest you get in contact with Randy Gross @714-292-8660. He is an expert on Model A brakes and he also sells brake shoes and drums as well. He can do it all; press in hubs, arch shoes, and set you up for success. Many folks here on Ford Bard have worked with him, me included, and found Randy most helpful and knowledgeable. Best of luck on what ever you decide.