brake system interchange

[J G Davis]

I'm not sure this is the correct section for this question, but I'm having a brake problem and am thinking of changing to power brakes.I'm experiencing rear wheel lockup on braking, but the stopping distances are then loooooooooong. It seems I'm not getting enough pressure to the front brakes. This is on an 85 2 wheel drive stepside. I'm thinking I've got a bad master cylinder. If the distance was not so long I would feel it was a bad  proportioning valve. If I'm going to be replacing the master cylinder and possibly also the proportioning valve, perhaps I'll change the system over to power brakes while i'm at it. My question is what is involved in this change. and what parts would be required. I can probably get some of the parts at the local U Pull It yard, but I wouldn't install a used master cylinder. Is the pedal or pedal hanger different on the two systems. Thank you,
                                                                 John  

[DnStClr]

I'm not an expert,but changing the system over to power will definitely help the front brakes. I don't think you'd have to change the pedal or bracket. New master cylinder with power booster, new proportioning valve, new lines, and possibly a 2 psi check valve for the rear brakes are probably all included in the kit you would buy. One big mfr is Baer.They have a heck of a website. You may have to call them to get the specific info on installation.
baer.com/cgi-bin/start.exe/baer/index.html