I had really thought I was going to get a lot of work done to grandpas car over the winter, but here it is almost spring and I’m just getting started. Ever since I became care taker of grandpas car it has pulled hard to the right when I hit the brakes. So a couple weeks back I started in on a fixing the issue. A quick inspection led me to buying all new wheel cylinders, hoses and bending new brake lines. My years of working maintenance has me wanting to at minimum flush the master cylinder. However, rebuilding it or even replacing it if it makes sense would not be out of the question. I looked for rebuild kits but can only find them for later year cars, not a 49. I do see new ones available but would like to know if anyone has had any luck with them and where you got them from if you did have good luck. Let me know fellas!
49 Merc master cylinder rebuild or replace
- Thread starter Marv 49
- Start date
rotorwrench
Well-known member
The 1949 through 1951 are all interchangeable as far as I know. Subtle differences only. I've used the new ones and they function well enough. If your old one is free of rust pits then hone it out and put a kit in. It'll save you some bucks in the long run. If it's pitted then chunk it in the scrap iron pile unless you want to spend the big bucks and get it re-sleeved.
The only thing that is hard to find is original front brake drums. I've had to modify the F100 drums to work by fabricating centering rings and modifying the bolt holes that hold the drum to the hub. If yours are still worn less than .060" over original size then you are lucky indeed.
The only thing that is hard to find is original front brake drums. I've had to modify the F100 drums to work by fabricating centering rings and modifying the bolt holes that hold the drum to the hub. If yours are still worn less than .060" over original size then you are lucky indeed.