Problem with Braking

[Shakey]

Seems that ever since I switched the front brakes of my '72 to the Toyota caliper upgrade (with the bleed valves above the brake fluid inlet) I have to push very hard on the brake pedal to stop. During this time I have also replaced the brake fluid two times, switched to S.S. brake lines, have removed the brake master cylinder and master vac (during a engine switch) and bleed the lines without a problem. I have a stiff brake pedal after bleeding but when I drive the car I need to push strongly on the pedal to get the car to stop. Never have to pump the pedal and the pedal never comes close to the floor. Seems most people say that after the Toyota switch thier stopping power greatly improves. In my case it has gotten to be dangerous. Any one with a similar problem that was solved?

[Walter Moore]

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but doesn't the 4 piston caliper upgrade require the later 280Z, or 280ZX master cylinder?

I admit that I am just talking out of my hat on this...

[DougN]

I did the Toyota upgrade, and my brakes are incredible now. Big difference between the car with the upgrade and the one without. I did notice that the pedal now has some "slack" (about an inch or two) before the brakes engage, but then they are effective and smooth. My Z mechanic says that it is probably due to the calipers having a return spring on them. I did not need to change the master cylinder or anythng else.

[clayton 260z]

Shakey,

Check your check valve and make sure you have it in correctly. You have described the exact problem I had. I also replaced everthing you did, on the check valve the arrow points toward the engine not the master vac.

Good Luck

[ktm]

Someone correct me if I am wrong, but doesn't the 4 piston caliper upgrade require the later 280Z, or 280ZX master cylinder?

I admit that I am just talking out of my hat on this...

Bingo. While the brakes will not go to the floor, it will require a longer travel given the increase in the reservoir volume in the calipers.

My car stops great with stock reman'd calipers, Powerslot rotors, good tires, and Hawk HP pads.