Cadillac & LaSalle Club Discussion Forum

Cadillac & LaSalle Club Forums => Technical / Authenticity => Topic started by: lorenzo2013 on December 30, 2016, 01:35:37 PM

Title: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: lorenzo2013 on December 30, 2016, 01:35:37 PM
Hi
New owner of a 59 coupe deville that i'm working on restoring.  I'm told I need a new brake booster as there's a vacuum leak inside it.  Makes a 'hissing' noise when touching the brake pedal, and you have to stand on the brakes to get the car to stop.

Having trouble finding one. I have no problem converting it to a dual cylinder, as i'm trying to follow "function over form" on the mechanical/internals

Would appreciate any advice anyone can give me!
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: 76eldo on December 30, 2016, 04:24:06 PM
There can be two different systems on that car.
Your booster and master cylinder combo might be a Bendix or Moraine.

Both types are available as rebuilt through Rock Auto and other places.

If you want to do a dual circuit system it's been mentioned here that the 1962 setup is  basically a bolt in with obviously some re-plumbing or the lines.

If you search the forum here you will find info.

Welcome to the message board.

Brian
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: David Greenburg on December 30, 2016, 05:37:12 PM
Using a '68 booster/master cyl is an inexpensive and easy way to convert to dual m/c. It's been discussed here extensively, and I believe there's a link to step by step instructions. And you may be able to get something for your '59 booster core.
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: 59-in-pieces on December 31, 2016, 01:38:56 AM
Lorenzo,
Gr8 your joining the 59 team - lots of fun to have one, and work on it.
Read as much as you can from the previous posts by using the search function.
Switching to a dual set up is not quite plug and play - if your car has cruise control a little jiggering is in your future to make the dual system fit - otherwise a fun piece of cake.
Have fun,
Steve B.
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: P. Manoogian on January 02, 2017, 09:29:13 AM
I believe the 1961 year was when they had both boosters with the Bendix one being used for the first few months of 1961. I have both a 59CDV and a Nov/Dec 60 built 61 Biarritz and both have the Bendix. My 61 parts car made in April of 61 had the Morraine.


I had Karps in Califormia rebuild mine. It may be more than just replacement of rubber parts as there is a phenolic-like disc that can crack. I would recommend Karps because they test them thoroughly after assembly and stand behind their work. Pricey, yes, but worry free once it is done.
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: 76eldo on January 02, 2017, 09:45:54 AM
59 and 60 Cadillacs can have either system.
I've worked on brake systems and have seen the difference.

Brian
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: David King (kz78hy) on January 02, 2017, 10:24:56 AM
In November, I removed and sent my booster/master cylinder to Midwest Power Products to be rebuilt.  They did a great job and the turn-a-round was quick.  I also got the odd ball size wheel cylinders (front) from them.  This was out of a '60 Eldorado Brougham.

http://www.midwestbooster.com

David

Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: Junkhead57 on February 13, 2017, 05:34:48 PM
Keep the original brake setup! It worked well when new & still could if you go thru the system properly. Just send your booster out to Booster Dewey in Oregon, He does a excellent job with a quick turnaround time & hes very friendly. I`ve been using him for 15 years or so for all kinds of makes & never any issues.
just my 2c,
Jeff
Title: Re: 1959 Cadillac - Brakes
Post by: gene harl on February 15, 2017, 12:46:53 PM
I also use booster Dewey, 1 or 2 day turn around and  a good price..
  Gene Harl