Old Fire Guy

I'm swapping out the frame mounted master cylinder for a firewall mounted power brake, dual pot master cylinder.

Yes, I went back and cleaned up the cotter pins and installed new covers. This setup allowed me get rid of the 1/2 inch wheel spacers I had to use with the drums. I was worried that the 14-inch Keystones wouldn't clear, but do, easily. I'm very happy with this upgrade.

I finally got around to swapping out the old disc brakes on my '49 DeSoto (Same as Dodge) with a kit from Scarebird. All the parts are normal easy to find from local parts stores. The 2 custom parts are the caliper mounting plates and the hubs. Everything went together quite easy. I have a few more things to finish tomorrow the pump it up, bleed it out, check for leaks and road test.

Hi folks, I have a redundant question: is this Moog spring a direct replacement for the springs in my '49 DeSoto S-13? I just looking to 'refresh' the sagging 70 year old units. Are there any modifications I need to make for the swap?

I put my DeSoto back on the lift and immediately noticed the transmission (727) cross member (fabricated) would be in the way, which may not be an issue if I swapped the 727 for an A-518 OD trans as the cross member would have to be moved back anyway. I need to do some measuring.

Has anyone used the universal frame mounted 7-inch power brake unit offered by Pirate Jack? I'm thinking about using it on my '49 DeSoto S-13, over a firewall mounted unit. Any thoughts or experiences?

I'm going to give the 02-07 Saturn electric assist a shot. (Found one on EBAY) Looks like I can splice it into the stock column. I like the idea of NOT needing to hang a pump, switch to a PS box and running hoses. I was going to replace the stock column, but if this works I get to keep the cool stock steering wheel and turn signal.

Never thought about electric assist, but others have: https://www.hotrod.com/articles/150-electric-power-steering-junkyard-prius-delivers/ Whew, $1600 will dent the wallet: https://www.unisteer.com/electric-power-steering/improved-electra-steer-ididit-steering-column-kit.html

Background: When I bought the car it had a 318/904 installed (quite poorly) so we (best friend mechanic and I) removed the front group and pulled the 318 and replaced it with the current 360/727, by fabricating proper engine mounts and re wiring everything from the firewall forward. I also removed the stock rear end and replaced it with an 8.75 from a 66 B-body, 2:73 open gearing. We actually shortened the steering wheel shaft/tube a couple of inches at that time to get it out of my chest. The suspension is all stock, I was able to replace the dead shocks, and have the Scarebird disc brake kit to install. I've sourced most parts to refresh the front suspension. I have already removed the clutch pedal and will be replacing the underfloor brake system with a hanging power brake booster, MC and pedal. I have also picked up an I-Did-It tilt steering column, and have already installed a Lokar floor shifter. With all that being said, yes, we have the mechanical, fabrication and welding ability to do most things 'in house' so the power steering challenge is not too daunting. I located a guy, Extreme Kustoms, locally (Menifee, CA) that is using a Nissan Truck variable power steering box on the late 40, early 50s Fords he works on. It has a long shaft to clear the frame and might work on my DeSoto. I'll check it out and post what I find. Scott ?

Hi folks, new guy just signed up to the site, but I've been checking it out for a while. I have a 49 DeSoto S-13 with a 360/727 and want to add power steering. I picked up a Scarebird disc brake changeover and will be adding power brakes at the same time. Since I'll have the front end off, seems like a good time to add power steering. I assume some people here have done it? Can you direct me to some sources (with pictures)? Thanks, Scott