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What modifications for changing manual drum brakes to power on a 66 Plymouth Fury III?

Converting manual drum brakes to power brakes on a 1966 Plymouth Fury III is a significant undertaking, requiring more than just swapping parts. Here's a breakdown of the modifications needed:

1. Master Cylinder:

* Replacement: You'll need a power brake master cylinder designed for your vehicle's year and engine size. Manual and power master cylinders are vastly different. Getting the correct bore size is crucial for proper braking performance. Incorrect sizing can lead to spongy brakes or insufficient stopping power.

* Pushrod Adjustment: The pushrod length may need adjusting to properly engage the new master cylinder.

2. Booster:

* Selection: Choose a power brake booster that fits your Fury's firewall and master cylinder. Many aftermarket options exist, but ensure it's compatible with your vehicle's year. Consider the booster's diameter; larger boosters generally provide more assistance.

* Mounting: This requires careful attention to alignment and secure mounting. Often, drilling or modifying the firewall is necessary to correctly position the booster.

* Vacuum Line: A vacuum line needs routing from the intake manifold to the booster. You'll need to locate a suitable vacuum port on your intake.

3. Brake Lines:

* Potential Modifications: You may need to modify or replace existing brake lines to accommodate the new booster and master cylinder. Routing may differ, and line lengths might need adjustment. Consider using pre-bent lines from a restoration parts supplier if possible to simplify this part of the process.

* Bleeding: After installation, the entire brake system must be thoroughly bled to remove any air bubbles.

4. Pedal Assembly:

* Possible Replacement: The manual brake pedal assembly might be incompatible with the power booster. A replacement pedal assembly designed for power brakes may be needed.

* Pushrod Adjustment (again): Precise adjustment of the pushrod between the pedal and the booster is critical.

5. Proportioning Valve (Possibly):

* Consideration: Depending on the booster and master cylinder you choose, a proportioning valve might be required or its adjustment needed to ensure proper front-to-rear braking balance.

6. Other Considerations:

* Parts Sourcing: Finding the correct parts for a classic car can be challenging. Restoration parts suppliers specializing in Mopar vehicles are your best bet.

* Mechanical Skill: This is a mechanically intensive job. If you lack experience with brake systems, it's highly recommended to have a qualified mechanic perform the conversion. Incorrect installation can result in brake failure, leading to serious injury or death.

* Safety: After the installation, thoroughly test the brakes in a safe, controlled environment. A professional brake inspection afterward is highly advised.

In short: This is not a simple bolt-on modification. It's a significant project requiring specialized tools, knowledge of brake systems, and careful attention to detail. While the parts themselves might seem straightforward, the installation is complex and demands precision. Consult a reputable shop specializing in classic car restoration for assistance if you're not comfortable undertaking this yourself.