Hi,

I just purchased a 1961 Dodge Dart. I would like to convert the manual brakes to power. Is there a kit for this? Or can someone please explain to me where to find information on this?

Thanks in advance!

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JJackson

The "Total-Contact" dual-leading-shoe brakes used on your '61 are a strange design by recent standards (using two wheel cylinders per wheel, for instance) but they do offer reasonably low pedal effort when in good repair. I mention this because if you are experiencing high pedal effort, it suggests that the brake system probably wants a good, careful inspection, especially if the car has been sitting and/or neglected for awhile (which seems probable, given the other issues you're experiencing with the cooling system, wiring, etc.). Power brakes were available in '61, but the system was rather primitive and complex, and the original parts will be difficult and expensive to get.

It sounds like you are probably at a point where you would want to think more generally about brake upgrades, figure out what you want the end result to be, and work backward from there.

You may also want to spend some time looking at this site (extensively upgraded and modernised 1960 Dart) and possibly start a conversation with the car's owner. Note he swapped in more modern brake equipment, including a power booster.

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

Wonderfull, thanks! Actually my brakes are fine, just thinking about all my options. The only problem is the pedal almost goes to the floor when I stay off of them for couple hours. But then they come back.

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JJackson

That is not correct behavior at all. Sounds like you have some sort of minor leak in the system somewhere.

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"Mad Scientist" Matt Cramer
'66 Dart - turbocharged 225
My blog - Mad Scientist Matt's Lair

Yes that I do. I have to top off the fluid every couple weeks.

Can anyone point me in the direction on where to get new brake parts?

Thanks again!

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JJackson

www.oldmoparts.com should have all the parts needed to rebuild your wheel brakes and your parking brake.

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

On my 60 Dart which has the same chassis, I believe that the '76 PB master cylinder bolted right in against the firewall and the only thing I had to adjust was the push rod.

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Cheers!
Al T