Tuff Stuff 2229NC booster

[streetk14]

Hey guys,
going through some older threads, and am looking for some clarification. I’m in the process of doing a booster/master cylinder upgrade on my 68 Firebird, and am looking at using the 2229NC booster with DSE reduced angle brackets and firewall seals. Do you know if this booster will accept a standard GM master cylinder? I’m looking to use one of Baer’s Remaster units, but the guys at Tough Stuff haven’t been much help. They said the booster mounting studs are 3”, which is close (but not exact) to what Baer shows in their schematics.

I would just buy the complete booster setup from DSE, but I’m not a fan of the late model GM M/C look. Maybe I’m creating more headaches for myself, but thought maybe someone would know the answer.

thanks!

[TheBandit]

I used the Tuff Stuff 2229NC booster and 18M974 (late model RHD S10 1" master with standard inverted flare ports) and the DSE low angle brakes. I ran into two issues (1) the non-adjustable pushrod had interference with the master piston, so I had to grind the pushrod a little to get the appropriate clearance and (2) even after opening the hole in the firewall, the bellows on the 2229NC would get caught on the hole, so I converted to the DSE seal plate setup

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2022/04/ly6swap1707-1.jpg

I used pushrod length checker I got on Amazon (just search "Power Brake Booster Adjustment Tool") and feeler gauges to check pin clearance.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/09/ly6swap1730-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2019/09/ly6swap1731-1.jpg

For the seal, I bought DSE part numbers 99050028 and 99050030 (ordered over the phone, not listed anywhere) which seal the booster to the firewall and allow unimpeded movement of the input rod on the booster.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/06/ly6swap1732-1.jpg

Before:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/06/ly6swap1733-1.jpg

After

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2020/06/ly6swap1734-1.jpg

[streetk14]

Awesome info… thanks. I actually have those firewall seal parts on the way, but it’s nice to see pictures. I have one of those pushrod length checkers, so no worries there.

Is opening up the firewall still a requirement with the DSE plate and seal setup? I have a fairly thick clutch master cylinder bracket that sits between the booster and firewall, so I’m not sure if this changes things at all.

Anyway, I guess I’m juggling whether I should cobble this together or just buy a complete booster from DSE. I wanted to use something like Baer’s Remaster M/C, but I’m not against the newer look. It’ll actually match my clutch reservoir, and probably look at home next to my LS7.

Open to thoughts or suggestions here.

[TheBandit]

I suspect the booster would fit through the existing hole in the firewall with the original bellows removed. If it does need trimming, it would not be much.

Regarding whether or not the 2229NC booster will work with other master cylinders, looking on the Tuff Stuff website, the application listed is '68-82 Corvette, so you should be able to use an older style or aftermarket master cylinder. The trick is to find one with a suitable bore for your caliper/rotor and pedal setup. I am using a 1" bore with C6 calipers and base 12.8in rotors.

[streetk14]

I think I’m going to do the 2229NC with a 1” Baer Remaster. I have an older set of Baer brakes with C5 style 2 piston PBR calipers in front, and Explorer single piston calipers in the rear. I think the 1” will be good. I talked to Tobin over at Kore3, and he confirmed the 2229NC accepts standard GM aftermarket master cylinders.

I was leaning towards the full DSE setup, but they use some weird 37 degree flare fittings on that C6 master. Couldn’t find anyone local who even has equipment for a 37 degree double flair, which means buying a tool to do them myself. A tool I’ll probably never use again. I asked DSE if they could make me some straight 8” lines, but they said they aren’t taking custom orders right now. So that makes this decision easier.

[TheBandit]

Good luck. Let us know how it works out.