[Grumpy]

Hi folks,

Need to get better brakes. The engines not making enough vac so I installed an SSBC vac pump kit and reservoir. Its still sketchy at best and not suitable for autocross. I caught the article in carcrap about the astrovan hydroboost. Any pros or cons I should know about ?

I know there are a couple of kits available. Have you used any of them and were they all inclusive ?

Dave

 

[bonspeedBrad]

I just installed a CPP hydroboost in my 1971 El Camino. First outing will be next weekend, so I'll let you know. See my other post here (Finishing El Camino) and there is a photo of the unit installed.

 

[Grumpy]

Which kit did your use and were any other parts need to complete it ?

 

[camcojb]

I used a Hydratech kit on my 64 Chevelle, and have also used them on a couple Camaro's. Everything needed was included and Paul was great with tech info.

The Camaro units were very straightforward. On the Chevelle he had to do a custom Viper master to get me something short enough to clear the turbo headers; no problem for him, and it worked great. I will be running his system again, I love the braking power and feel of the hydroboost.

http://www.hydratechbraking.com/

Jody

 

[bonspeedBrad]

Which kit did your use and were any other parts need to complete it ?

I used the CPP unit as shown here.

 

[MDchanic]

I've never driven a Chevelle with HydroBoost, but I drove ambulances with it (powered by 454s) for years, and drive a diesel pickup with it now.

It works great, very reliable. The feel is a bit different - a bit less solid when you stomp on it. The feel is kind of reactive if you hit it hard; it pushes back at you slightly, kind of like when you've got a buddy on the other side of a wall holding a bolt while you turn the nut - he starts to push back when he feels you pushing, and the nut turns back at you just a bit. Not bad though, and easy to get used to.

GM used these things on a huge number of trucks over many, many years, so parts are easy to find, and it's a rock-solid system.

- Eric

 

[71Avido]

I used the astro van system in my 'velle.
It is kinda a PITA to do because you need to make or buy ($$) custom power steering hoses. As well as make brackets to attach it to the firewall and pedal.

As far as how the system performs, I have never been in a vehicle that stops better. I still need to do some work on proportioning front/back but its a keeper.

 

[TW]

The feel is a bit different - a bit less solid when you stomp on it. The feel is kind of reactive if you hit it hard; it pushes back at you slightly, kind of like when you've got a buddy on the other side of a wall holding a bolt while you turn the nut - he starts to push back when he feels you pushing, and the nut turns back at you just a bit. Not bad though, and easy to get used to.
- Eric

Eric, that's a good way to describe it. It definitely is different. I have it on my daily driver GMC Denali. You notice what you are describing more during a panic or fast stop. Also, if you hold the brake down when you start the car, it kicks back at you when the car starts.

Tom

 

[JChilders]

I have the hydratech system and I love it. Installation was very straight forward. I think it took less that 2 hours. I have had it for about 2 maybe 3 years with no problems.

 

[F1 Speed]

I have the hydratech system and I love it. Installation was very straight forward. I think it took less that 2 hours. I have had it for about 2 maybe 3 years with no problems.

X2 Hydratech :thumbsup:

 

[Grumpy]

Guess I did not do my homework since I ordered this kit http://www.chevellebrakeparts.com/products.asp?cat=16