Hello again to all. I continue to consider purchase of this 54 Olds, Been speaking w/owner and have gotten little deeper as far as any significant issues w/car and there a 2. 1st, Owner states when you start to drive car from dead cold start (overnight), the Power Brakes work fine, but after even a limited drive time, brakes do not stop vehicle as they should (unknown if brake heat issue?). Pedal stays firm, but braking power is not there, Fastest he goes is 55mph and stated if you were traveling at 65mph and had to hit the brakes hard in a 'panic stop' you would not be to stop quickly enough. He says its difficult to 'lock up' the brakes at almost any speed. Has had the M/C rebuilt twice, new wheel cylinder and brake hoses, there is a check valve at the carb which he states is functioning properly. Haven't gotten far enough w/him to know if type is a cast iron Moraine booster type or a treadle vac Aluminum bendix type.

Been checking some of the other threads, Buick, Pontiac of similar years and apparently have similar (but not exactly the same) Power Brake setups but experiencing similar problem. Some threads have noted the Type/Brand of brake shoe as a possible issue (and recommending which shoes NOT to buy) and/or noting who the manufacturer of Brake Lining material is., etc.. A company name C.H. Topping in Long Beach, CA has come up several times and apparently makes a 'softer' brake lining and according to some owners has solved similar problem. Also noted addition of 'few drops of Marvel Mystery Oil in the Master Cylinder' to help with difficult stopping brakes with one owner stating 'Adding a few drops of light oil the the brake booster in covered in '57 Buick shop manual.' They also mention a 'leather gasket ' in this M/C (w/my limited knowledge at this time, don't know if a Moraine or Bendix type or applicable to both).

There is a 2nd problem and apparently has to do with a 'noise' that occurs whenever starting from dead stop, othrwise vehicle shifts, runs fine. Don't think this is related to brakes.

However, Brakes are essential and a priority. One thing at a time. Been a Mopar guy for a long time, never experienced this kind of issue, (Mopars have their own problems).
Any knowledge/experience you can share is greatly appreciated
Dad-Par

 

Something to check. The vacuum tank needs to hold vacuum or the problem you experience will occur. A way to check it is after a short drive remove the vacuum line at the tank, there should be a sucking noise as the hose separates. If sucking noise is there do the same test after running the car and letting it set overnight. If no vacuum you have a leak either at the tank (hole or crack somewhere) . Check or replace the carb to tank hose and clamps, double check the carb valve see if if it is holding vacuum. If all is good it has to be in the treadle- vac.

Treadle- vac aren't super brakes but fall into the adequate cadergoey. but they aren't as good as power disks so it's hard to compare them with newer braking systems. I don't have a issue with them and they have gotten me all over the western US and Canada many of thousand miles, but if you jump out of a modern car then get in your 54 there is a major difference, takes awhile to get adjusted..... Tedd

 

X2 on what Tedd says ^^^. I'd look at the vacuum tank and line.

The treadle-vac system requires some getting used to, but I have no problem with it.

 

Gentlemen: Thanks to both of you for your insight and advice.
John

 

To me, owning an "old"car is the driving experience. I want my '56 to be as much like it was when it was new.

I did convert to radial tires and I did convert to electric wipers and I did add seat belts, but I have no problem with the treadle vac brakes. I do have to be alert to anticipate that I cannot stop on a dime, but I had to get used to the rear view vision difficulties and the lack of rack and pinion steering too.

I have to more alert in the Super 88 than in my Grand Cherokee, but that's not a bad thing! After all, a lot more people are waving at me in the Olds, so I have to be careful picking my nose!

 

Same as Frank electric wipers, radial tires, vision issues (unless the top is down) and the picking my nose thing.... Tedd

 

Is any more information available?

 

X2, describe in more detail, where is the noise coming from, front of car, transmission, or maybe a belt slipping?.... Tedd

 

Sorry I was unable to get back to you sooner. I'm in touch with owner today and will try and find out more. Not sure if he said it was just a 'noise' that occurs from dead stop or a 'clunk" that may be felt through car. He made the point it only occurs when starting up from a dead stop. And no noise while in motion accelerating or decelerating or steady rate of speed. Says trans shift as it should, engine runs fine. I initially asked if u joints were old as they can let you know that they are wearing. He mentioned possible rear spring shackles could be loose, but unsure if it would be more than just a noise', seems like you would be able 'feel' that. Now I believe these are flat type springs running fore and aft. (not like the old Fords that ran side to side (transverse). There has to be a front mount (bearing?) to these leaf springs. If that is worn enough might just provide enough 'clunk'?