I removed my brake booster during the paint process.  Looking at my brake booster I have a few questions:

1. Is the actuator on the master cylinder side supposed to just pull out, to include the rubber grommet? (See Photo)
2. Is there a gasket needed on both (or one) side of the spacer? (See Photo) I see a silhouette of a gasket, but there wasn't one on it.
3. When I tried to check the booster with a vacuum pump, I could get it to five or ten pounds of pressure, but it would lose vacuum pretty quickly.  Do I need to seal up one side or both before adding vacuum?
4. Lastly, are there good alternatives (that you've used) other than the $170 booster sold on Z sites?

Edited June 25, 20204 yr by HappyZ

I finally looked at this. When you buy the rebuilt booster there are issues with the threaded rods not lining up at the firewall and they warn that it often needs to be customized to fit your car. I bought the master rebuild kit and it was challenging but I got through it. Mine held vacuum after I was done but I tore it completely apart as my photos indicate. I also cut gaskets for my spacers and plan to silicone them in in case there is a potential vacuum leak there.

Try giving Power brake exchange a call in San Jose. Ask if they have the parts in stock to rebuild your unit. I’ve used them in the past.  Good People and easy to work with. 
Power Brake Exchange, Inc. - San Jose, Ca. 
Phone: (408) 292-1305  Fax: (408) 294-6817

Thanks to all for your help...I'm in a much better position now.  The FSM is good, but you folks are great.  I try to contribute when I can.