Ready, Set, Stop

The new master cylinder fits perfectly on the framerail where the old unit was previously mounted. The owner had accessed the old part through a window cut into the floor, which will continue to serve that purpose. ABS has equipped the product with a universal mounting bracket that can be used with the Ford, GM, or Chrysler bolt pattern. Additional bracket styles are also offered.

ABS also offers a frame-mounted remote-fill master cylinder and reservoir for applications where room is limited and even the smaller standard reservoir is too large. It's not bad looking either.

The pump assembly and accumulator can be mounted in any position in any location (including the trunk). The only limitations are that it should not be mounted at a higher level than the master cylinder (it is gravity fed) or located too close to the exhaust pipes or mufflers, which could overheat the fluid. On this application, it fit very well directly behind the master cylinder in the frame inside the K-member. The relay is mounted close by.

With everything mounted, the plumbing can begin. The first hard line is to the rear brakes (A). Next is the hard line to the front brakes (B). One more over is the high-pressure line to the power booster pump (C). The braided line (D) feeds fluid from the reservoir to the pump.

The pushrod to the floor-mounted brake pedal has been installed (arrow). ABS can make rods in different lengths for different applications to maintain the proper travel. They recommend a minimum of 1 1/2 inches of travel in order to adequately activate the pistons inside the master cylinder.

Here you can see where the high-pressure hard line (A) and the braided hose from the reservoir (B) connect to the pump. Replacing the brake lines is not needed for this upgrade unless the master cylinder was relocated, or the plumbing is deteriorated.