Changing from hyroboost

[custodian]

I've taken the diesel out of my 85 C19 and will be replacing it with a gas motor. I want to remove the hydro boost and replace it with vacuum boost system. Anything I need to modify or is it just bolt on?

 

[Dutch Rutter]

Why not just keep the hydroboost setup? Overall it is the better system to have and its not like it will interfere with the gasoline engine any.

Not putting down, mainly just curious here.

 

[Frankenchevy]

I agree, one less source of a potential vacuum leak. Not to mention, if you ever want to throw a nasty cam in it, it’ll still brake well.

 

[AuroraGirl]

only if its not functioning would you really want to replace it. Guys will happily take your hydroboost setup and give you their vaccuum setups!

 

[custodian]

True, I have hydro boost on my 02 Silverado 2500 HD 4x4. Was just going to replace it after it's been sitting for over 10 years.

 

[82Diesel]

I have a Vaccum boost from my 82 k10 that was converted to Gas, I'm going back to Diesel and would take your Setup if it works and has no issues.
Also might be interested in the engine/trans.

 

[custodian]

I don't know if the hydro system works. It has sit for over 10 years. The motor has been disassembled to a short block. I have all the diesel motor parts. Trans is not for sale.

 

[custodian]

I'm removing the hydro-boost this weekend if anyone would be interested in it. Unknown if it works.

 

[AuroraGirl]

Again... wouldnt you rather have the more desireable setup that doesnt care about engine vacuum? You would just need to source a hydroboost bracket and pump for a SBC rather than a diesel(unless they were the same, doubt it) This also means way less work removing your entire brake setup and running in regular booster, etc.

I think if your unit DIDNT work you would much rather fix it...

also, its hydraulics. The pump is the power steering pump. The hydroboost unit is, to what i understand, a diverter that sends hydraulic pressure to actuate your master cylinder.. so unless its fully bad or worn out, It should function.

 

[SirRobyn0]

Again... wouldnt you rather have the more desireable setup that doesnt care about engine vacuum? You would just need to source a hydroboost bracket and pump for a SBC rather than a diesel(unless they were the same, doubt it) This also means way less work removing your entire brake setup and running in regular booster, etc.

I think if your unit DIDNT work you would much rather fix it...

also, its hydraulics. The pump is the power steering pump. The hydroboost unit is, to what i understand, a diverter that sends hydraulic pressure to actuate your master cylinder.. so unless its fully bad or worn out, It should function.

Can somebody school me here. @Dutch Rutter @Frankenchevy @AuroraGirl, Other than in the case of a fat cam what makes hydroboost desirable? Seems like your trading potential vacuum leak for fluid leak so that's like an even trade off to me. I've got vac boost in my square but hydro in my class C RV, so I know how they both drive and I don't see the big plus. Thanks.

 

[Frankenchevy]

Can somebody school me here. @Dutch Rutter @Frankenchevy @AuroraGirl, Other than in the case of a fat cam what makes hydroboost desirable? Seems like your trading potential vacuum leak for fluid leak so that's like an even trade off to me. I've got vac boost in my square but hydro in my class C RV, so I know how they both drive and I don't see the big plus. Thanks.

Couldn’t tell you past the cam part(or diesel). I believe, for the most part I’d rather a slight fluid weep to a vacuum leak, though neither are desirable. Most heavier duty trucks I’ve come across have hydro assisted brakes vs vac assisted brakes, I guess there’s something to be said for that.

While I can tell you that my SquareBody stops really well for a truck of its era—in fact violently so if I mash the brakes; I would defer to your expertise on the matter due to your background as a mechanic. Whereas my background is shade tree and forum based at best.

 

[Blue Ox]

Hydro has more power than vacc assisted. Also has an accumulator so if the engine stalls you get a couple of assisted stops before the pedal starts to feel like trying to crush a garbage can with your foot. I guess a big enough vacuum reservoir will do that for you too.

In my experience, both systems are reliable enough that that's not a decider for either one. My opinion is that the juice brakes have a minor advantage. If I was going to swap a system I'd go vacc to hydro, but not the other way around.

 

[bucket]

Imho, both systems work well. They both have their advantages too. Personally, I prefer the pedal feel of a hydro boost system.

 

[bucket]

I'm removing the hydro-boost this weekend if anyone would be interested in it. Unknown if it works.

What's your location?

 

[skysurfer]

Hydro has more power than vacc assisted.

900 psi for vacuum brakes, 2400 psi for hydroboost. Makes a big difference when running oversized tires.