Power steering and brake boosters both have a major influence on how we drive. They take pressure off our legs so we can focus on driving without fear of an abrupt stop.
Brake boosters work by using the engine’s vacuum (in petrol-powered cars) to increase brake pedal force. Dual diaphragm boosters offer 19% better stopping power than single diaphragm units.
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Brake Booster
The brake booster is what sets power-assisted braking apart from manual brakes. In essence, it increases the force applied to the pedal by using engine vacuum or direct hydraulic pressure generated by your power steering pump.
The booster contains two chambers separated by a diaphragm. One chamber is linked to the brake pedal, and the other to the master cylinder piston.
When you press the brake pedal, a rod passes through the center of the booster’s diaphragm. As air rushes through, pressure in the chamber drops dramatically – creating vacuum (via vacuum hose).
A check valve prevents vacuum from escaping back to the brake pedal side of a booster, where it could damage brakes. With time, however, this vacuum decreases and it becomes harder to press the brake pedal.
Master Cylinder
Master cylinders are essential in the brake system, providing fluid that moves the pedal when applied brake pressure from your foot. This braking force then propels either disc or drum brakes on your car’s discs or drums for effective stopping power.
A booster takes the master cylinder concept and amplifies it by using a diaphragm and vacuum (usually air, though this can also be created with water) to inject additional fluid into the brake system.
Boosters come in various sizes and are usually mounted on the firewall of your vehicle. They can be configured for manual, power or dual diaphragm applications; furthermore, they come in several colors to match your vehicle’s paint job.
A well-crafted booster is the best way to improve stopping power and ride quality at once. Plus, they’re easy to install on most modern cars, plus they add some aesthetic appeal to your engine bay.
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Pedal Lever
A brake booster works to magnify the force that your foot applies to the master cylinder by using a diaphragm system, in which vacuum from an engine (in petrol-powered cars) and some air are combined to add extra pressure onto the pushrod as it enters the master cylinder.
The pedal lever is composed of a long, straight and narrow shaft with two handles on either end that are connected to springs. This design allows drivers to easily operate both brake and accelerator with one hand.
This adaptation is ideal for drivers with functional restrictions on either or both legs. The pedals are foldable and can be positioned behind the steering wheel.
Mounting
When upgrading your street rod with disc brakes or adding power to a classic muscle car, the chrome brake booster and master cylinder is an essential part to consider. Not only will this enhance performance of your vehicle, but a properly installed system will make everything else run better too. These units come in various styles from simple 3 bolt kits up through complete replacement systems that won’t require modifications from you.
Finding the ideal unit for you requires comparing specifications and prices from several companies. Opting for the one best suited to your needs will give you peace of mind that you are getting a great deal and most features at an affordable price point. Plus, with these types of companies, you’ll receive prompt courteous service dedicated to helping you get the best deal on your next purchase.
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