73-87chevytrucks.com

73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Brakes, Frame, Steering & Suspension => Brakes and Braking Systems => Topic started by: Zeked on December 05, 2009, 09:40:17 pm

Title: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: Zeked on December 05, 2009, 09:40:17 pm

I want to get my '87 short/step to stop better.
Am running totally stock but wonder about upgrading to
3/4 ton or rear disc.......   I want to be able to stop
a fully loaded horse trailer better than stock.

Suggestions?

Thanks
Zeke

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: joesgarage71 on December 05, 2009, 09:52:22 pm

Your trailer has brakes they should be doing the work of stopping itself. Don't expect your truck to stop the whole rig.

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: Lt.Del on December 05, 2009, 10:02:45 pm

any good brake controlloler will mount under your dash and you can set the brake pressure for the trailer brakes.   usually on a scale of 1-10.

When pulling my camper, I adjust it frequently depending if I am driving over mountains and such.  You should adjust them so that you feel the trailer slowing down the truck.

If you don't have trailer brakes, it will be easier to put those on rather than put all new brakes on your truck.  Also, make sure your truck brakes are in good condition....no air, good fluid, drums/rotor turned for even surface, check pads/shoes.   

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: Irish_Alley on December 06, 2009, 03:50:42 am

my truck stops better with a trailer with breaks then the truck by itself

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: Whitfield on December 06, 2009, 04:53:15 am

I've seen a few power brake booster upgrades on other models that seem to make a BIG difference.  I've also seen a few 25 year old trucks with very poor / not working brake proportioning.  Brake fluid absorbs water, that is what discolors it.  This water will rust up components internally on occasion damaging calipers / proportioning valves, and rear wheel cylinders.   

Might verify clean fluid  and a proper functioning stock system first.


Any more details about the truck?  2wd 4wd?  Which rear, 10b ?

I believe if you can get a brake parts catalog their may be a few options on drum dia and shoe width. 

Of course bigger front rotors and calipers will have a mechanical advantage.

A quick search lead me to this rear disk upgrade article:  http://www.coloradok5.com/atrondiskbrakes.shtml

 

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: Blazin on December 06, 2009, 06:21:03 am

Its a 1/2 ton short bed! Its not meant to haul a heavy trailer. No matter what you do to it for brakes its not going to stop very good. Agreed on the trailer brake too, it should be stopping itself.

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: Zeked on December 13, 2009, 06:20:39 pm

Thanks Guys

I keep thinking technology is going to bail me out......

The trailer has brakes, and I realize that the 1/2 ton is too light for long hauls,
but you gotta dream about some thing.

I'll stay stock

Zeke

Title: Re: stopping (as in brake) problem
Post by: bobcooter on January 02, 2010, 07:43:30 am

Drive slower. Sorry.. couldn't help it!