Some brake issues

[TxCamperSpecial]

Tell me what you brake experts think. The brake pedal is rock solid. When you step on it, the pedal only goes down about 1 inch and slowing is very sluggish. I haven't had this truck long so I haven't done the basics yet. First I was going to bleed the brakes and if that didn't help, replace the power booster. Any other ideas or advice? Thanks.

[qman]

Mine did that cause one of the front cylinders was leaking and I only had rear brakes. I almost couldn't hold the truck from moving forward at idle with all my might. So bleeding will help it but if you have the same problem I did then you'll have to fix the leak.

[TxCamperSpecial]

Never thought of that, thanks. When I'm bleeding them, I'll be looking for leaks. Thanks.

[jor]

If the pedal is solid, I wouldn't think bleeding will help. I had the same problem some time ago with my 67. It turned out that I wasn't supplying enough vacuum to the booster. Once that problem was fixed, the brakes worked normally. Make sure you have a dedicated vacuum source for the booster and check the booster for leakage.
jor

[binder56jd]

i concur w/ jor- sounds like booster issue- jd

[fordman]

or maybe a frozen/ stuck wheels cylinders. and you can check for leaking if you push real hard on the brakes and park it over night. then in the morning look underneath it to see if there is any brake fuild on the lower inside of the tire.

[ToughOldFord]

Make sure none of your brake lines are crushed or kinked.

[Jake11]

The little pistons get stuck. You can have a good pedal, and no brakes!

[surubet]

Check for overheated and glazed pads/shoes too. I've scruffed them up (with crocus cloth) and taken the shine off and gotten better braking before. Watch out for asbestos pads and shoes though. Getting them wet with water will keep asbestos fibers from getting into your lungs.