[Amc-list] Brakes finally!

[mask1966@xxxxxxx]

Well, the saga of the lousy brakes on my '62 classic is finally over. 
If you recall, in January I related my frustration after rebuilding all 
wheel cylinders, replacing all hoses, bleeding the system until blue in 
the face; I still had low pedal and very poor stopping power at best. 
Fast forward to the middle of March (spent 6 weeks in Florida). The 
previous owner said the master cylinder was rebuilt, but since I 
rebuilt or replaced everything else, I knew the M/C had to be the 
cause. As many know, '62 was the first year for the dual M/C and it is 
unique to that year. I could come up with a rebuilt '62, but for $240, 
I thought not. I ended up getting a NEW '66 dual M/C for $83 from NAPA 
and making it work.

It was actually pretty easy. The bolt width is the same and it bolted 
to the firewall without issue. A couple of adapter fittings (also from 
NAPA) allowed the front and rear brake lines to be connected with only 
slight bending. The only real issue was the length of the '62 push rod. 
It was about an inch or so short. No big deal, I welded on an extent 
ion and all fit like a glove. After bleeding for 30 minutes with the 
help of SWMBO, I had a high firm pedal and the stopping power is vastly 
improved. As others have told me here, the classic brakes are adequate 
at best, even when new. They are right. At least now, I feel confident 
driving my jewel without fear of rear ending someone. Thanks for all 
the advice I got from many here.

Mike Klepp, '62 Classic 4 door
Oakwood, IL
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