Why hydroboost? Why convert over?

[rickpaw]

1) Eliminates need to run a vacuum pump on high performance engines.
2) Allows for power brakes in applications that prevent normal location of vacuum booster.
3) Allows for more consistent power assist.
4) Provides emergency power brakes if engine has failed.

Not owning a hydroboost system I have a stupid question. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

I understand that a hydroboost works off of power steering pump, which in turns being turned by the engine. With that understanding, is the last statement in the above quote incorrect? With a stopped engine, no power steering pump = no hydroboost? Unless there is some residual pressure remains in the system after the engine has stopped.

[jknight16]

There is an accumulator on Hydroboost systems that will give you enough assist for one or two stops with the engine not running.

It's the small cylinder that's off to the side of the Hydro unit.

[a67]

Note that not all hydro boost units have the accumulator. So if you want the engine-off power assisted braking make sure that the HB unit you get has an accumulator.

And of course be sure to test that it actually holds pressure.

Bob.

[rickpaw]

Got it. Thanks

[67 goat]

I installed a hydraboost setup from HydraTech on my GTO and I absolutely love it. I had vacuum boosted brakes, but with my 236/242 duration cam, the vacuum booster was essentially useless. When the cam was stock, the vaccuum boost worked great. I have a factory disc conversion up front (from an early 70's A-body) with factory rear drums. I can't speak for others, but in my car, the modulation between the vacuum booster (with stock cam) and the hydraboost is very, very similar. Honestly, I think it's perfect. I can stop VERY hard, yet controlled, and with a bit more effort can lock the brakes if so desired......but again, I would certainly not say that they are too touchy. Tires are 285/40 rear and 245/45 front, Nitto 555s.

At some point, I will be updgrading my brakes to C5 fronts and LS1 rears.......will they be too touchy after that? We'll see, but I'm guessing they'll still be fine by me.

Thanks,
Jeff

[gort69]

At some point, I will be updgrading my brakes to C5 fronts and LS1 rears.......will they be too touchy after that? We'll see, but I'm guessing they'll still be fine by me.

Thanks,
Jeff

I have Hydroboosted C5/LS1 on a Camaro, 275 rears and 245 fronts. Not touchy at all. Perfect, IMO.

[67 goat]

I have Hydroboosted C5/LS1 on a Camaro, 275 rears and 245 fronts. Not touchy at all. Perfect, IMO.

That's good to know. Thanks!

-Jeff

[130fe]

I have Hydroboosted C5/LS1 on a Camaro, 275 rears and 245 fronts. Not touchy at all. Perfect, IMO.

Al, what size bore MC are you running? What kind of prop valve do you have?