2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission To hydroboost or not to hydroboost

[Jim McCarty]

I have a '96 2500 CTD with about 85000 miles on it. I love this truck and take very good care of it. The only thing I don't like about it is the brakes. Sometimes I have a small vacuum leak and have to wait for vacuum to build for a few seconds in the morning. The real problem is that I live in a hilly area and the brakes feel really weak coming down hill. I just had them gone thru by a brake shop and they put on new calipers, pads and rear shoes. They said that's just the way they are. My question is then, has anyone switched over to hydroboost? I've seen the Hydratech web site and they sound impressive. Not cheap though. Is there a cheaper way to go and if so, how hard is this conversion? Any problems? Any info would be much appreciated. Jim

 

[rubberneck]

YES YES YES. I have been preaching this to the 1st and early second gen guys, but so far no body cares to listen. We put a hydroboost on my dads 92 first gen. The difference was absolute night and day. We got it from paul at hydratech www.hydroboost.com they were great to deal with and they have kits for both 1st and 2nd gen trucks, you just have to ask. We had some problems bleeding the system at first, but once we got that worked out, we will NEVER own a truck with vacuum assist again. you will not be dissapointed.