1952-59 Ford Master cylinder options

I need to replace the master cylinder on my wagon. I'm leaning tword a Wilwood master cylinder with the built in prop valve and brake light switch. Does anyone have any other recommendations and what size bore? My car has rear drums with Granada front discs. Thanks in advance

 

I understand that their tech support is excellent, maybe ask Wilwood?

 

I talked with the Wilwood tech’s before purchasing. I did not want a vacuum power ***ist. They asked a few questions prior to a recommendation. Foot pedal ratio, rear wheel cylinder diameter, etc.
I went with the system they said was for what I wanted and it used a 7/8” MC. I bought thru Summit even tho I’m close to their location. They also said to call if there was any questions with the detailed instructions. It was a very easy installation on a 56 do to as the left front frame had 2 tees on top. It works as they said it would. It was nice that wheel spacers were included even tho I did not use them. I had installed an 8.8 Explorer rear end with F-150 drum brakes prior to the start and changed the wheel cylinders to a smaller diameter. 15/16”
I liked that their calipers are 4 piston and if I needed more I could go to 6 piston.

 

I have a this exact set up. 1" Master bore, and I have no problems with it. I really like it. I hear a lot of guys like a 7/8th bore. I went with a 1" just since its in the middle.

 

Thanks 53vicky.

 

Hi,

I am also going to buy a master cylinder with front disc brakes, at the back I have disc brakes which came from a kit for my previous 8" rear end for my mustang, now those disc brakes were installed on 9" ford rear end, but I also need to purchase the front master cylinder with 2 front disc brakes thinking of wilwood kit what do you recommend ?

 

I'm ***uming your looking for kits for the '56 in your picture? I would go with the dynalite kit by Wilwood for the disks. https://www.wilwood.com/BrakeKits/B...ear=1956&make=Ford&model=Victoria&option=Base I was really pleased with the install on mine. Everything bolted up perfectly, and I've had no issues. Highly recommend.

For the master cylinder, I went with this set up so I can adjust the amount of pressure going to the rear brakes.https://www.wilwood.com/MasterCylin...luminum Tandem M/C Kit with Bracket and Valve

I'd recommend getting the disc brakes directly from wilwood. But you might be able to find a better deal on the master cylinder by going through jegs or speedway.

 

Wilwood on a 56. Upper 2 bolts are a decorative plate. Installed studs on the bottom for ease of installing. Stock brake light switch. Lower heat deflector is from Prestige Thunderbird. Prop valve heat deflector is home made. Both have silver reflective insulating tape from Home Depot and painted with BBQ black paint.

 

Jimmy six, what are you running for front brakes? Do you happen to have a part number for the master cylinder your using? Any complaints or concerns with it? Thanks in advance

 

Wilwood 4 piston.

I believe these are the numbers but do check them.
1956 Ford Front disc brake kit. 140-12922
7/8” MC kit. 261-13271 (They offer natural, black, & polished) I believe this is a universal fit MC kit
Red residual valve. (Not sure it’s needed)

The only possible complaint would be pedal pressure. It’s less than drums but I would like a little less. I’ve been thinking of drilling another hole on the pedal arm above the stock one and moving the push rod up. I’m 100% sure there would not be any interference of the push rod to the MC body. I would also plug the original hole with a piece of a shank of a bolt.

I hope this helps. Many on this HAMB social page have used Wilwood Brake Products. I don’t think there are few if any complaints.