Hi

The brake booster in my cutlass is leaking, and I am planning on replacing it. I am wondering, is there a better alternative to the original 1970 design, such as later model brake boosters from the 80s that are longer and have a smaller diameter? Would they bolt in or is the setup completely different? I don't mind if it doesn't look original. Are there other aftermarket boosters that work better? I am pulling about 18 in of vacuum at idle if I remember correctly. Before the brake booster began leaking it worked adequately but I feel there is room for improvement.

Thanks for the input!

 

The original booster might have been marginal for a long time. If you have it properly serviced and brought back to its original specifications, you will be quite surprised how well it will work. Do a search for Booster Dewey on these forums, and you will find the address. I have had a number of boosters repaired by him, and they are a great improvement over the old worn out booster. If you are having braking problems, it isn't the booster, but more likely the brake pads / shoes themselves. Personally, I hate the new lining material, since it increases the stopping distance, and it doesn't perform as well as the old lining material.

 

okay, I will go with a rebuilt original style brake booster. Thanks for the help!

 

I'm putting a brand new 9" dual diaphragm booster on mine from the late 79 trans ams.
More surface area then an 11" for vacuum.

I put one in my 78 Camaro as well. IIRC I paid ~$90 for a new one from Rock Auto.

 

I found this thread:

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...-cylinder.html

I called that phone number during their business hours but it says its "unavailable"

I also found their website:

http://boosterdeweyexchange.com/

...Any Ideas?

 

They are still there.. There is a 3 hour differance between the East and West Coast, so call them after 12 noon, and you will get a live person on the phone.

 

I was able to get ahold of them today. I had called a few times yesterday afternoon, I don't know why I couldn't get through.

I'm going to have the booster rebuilt - $115 plus $15 return shipping. They said it would take 3-4 days. It sounds great, I'll let you guys know how it goes. Thanks for the help!