Brake conversion

[Rbohannon]

Hello everyone I have a question and just need an answer if someone has one or can point me in a direction that can help it would be great. My question is does anyone have any info on converting hydraulic brakes over to air brakes. I know it’s been done but info is limited, money, parts or time are of no concern. Just looking for an answer to a question and I figured maybe the guys on this site might be a little brighter and appreciate a challenge. TIA.

 

[andyg-TC]

You could maybe go to air-over-hydraulic brakes but I don't know why you would want to. I think they are mostly found on military trucks.

 

[Rbohannon]

The problem is that parts are getting harder to find. As of right now I have not been able to find all the parts to rebuild the brakes. Places that thought they could get them have found that suppliers are discontinuing the parts. Which is understandable since it’s a 1978 b-700 with hydraulic brakes.

 

[andyg-TC]

Switching from juice brakes to air is a pretty major project. You might even have to exchange the axels for ones made to accept air brake hardware.

 

[Rbohannon]

I figured axle swap would be easiest. I have a whole semi chassis I got for free. Just have to do some measuring to see if they will fit. I think I might be able to find some axles that will bolt up with minimum fabrication if these don’t work. Time will tell how easy or hard it will be.

 

[TomRC]

Hydraulic brakes are still available on trucks up to 33,000gvw. Easier to update your system then to change it. It is 4 wheel disc, or front disc/rear drum?

 

[LargeMarge-TC]

We live near the outskirts of Eugene, Oregon.

The heavy truck dismantler [aka 'wrecking yard'] Anderson Brothers constantly acquires-and-dismantles Class 6/7/8 trucks and semi tractors. I bet they have all the parts you need.

Based on my experience with their counter staff, you will probably find your conversion parts by strolling through the acres. Bring lots of photographs and dimensions to compare.