1974 911 brake re-do questions

[mbintx]

Recently purchased a 1974 911. It's been well-maintained, but will need new brakes in the near future. The easy answer is replacement rotors, upgraded pads and better brake fluid, and leave it at that. But... is there a relatively inexpensive option that will give me a better brake setup for not much more money?

This will not be a track car, but I do want to optimize my brakes for street and spirited back roads driving.

Currently running on 15" Fuchs, and don't wish to upsize wheels to accommodate bigger brakes at this time.

And while I'm asking, is there a master cylinder upgrade out there to add a bit of feel to these unassisted brakes?

Thanks for any suggestions!

[MichaelUD]

Your question reminds me of my experience with the brakes on my '76. PO had brakes bled every two years. I decided to replace MC. The old one, original to car, was immaculate. Replaced it anyway. Quite a chore. Replaced original brake lines. Had calipers rebuilt. New pads. Taking off calipers, pads of was easy. Bleeding with the pressure device annually is easy. Fun job.

[gtc]

I think the short answer is no... the stock brakes should feel good and have plenty of power for back roads when taken care of.

[manbridge 74]

Don't overlook brake lines. I recently pulled some off a one family owned 66. I believe they were original but I couldn't read the date (Porsche often dated these). I also couldn't blow through them with mouth pressure. Totally constricted yet car did have SOME brakes. I would strongly recommend replacement if unsure of age.

Next, with a wheel off take the pad retaining pin out. Then try and lift pads out. This can help assess a caliper that is beginning to stick. Provided you don't have a big lip on disc, they should slide right out with caliper still bolted to car.

Pressure bleeding is good but always end with a manual bleed using an assistant. Get some clear aquarium hose so you can easily determine when air is out. My brakes are OE 74 with exception of pads (not sure of brand) and steel braided lines installed by PO. The SS lines aren't necessary. My brake pedal has very little travel and excellent feel. Can definitely out brake the tires ability to grip.

[Steve@Rennsport]

Some good advice here.

You didn't way whether you have a 911 or a 911S and which brakes you have and that's a key point.

Using the correct pads, new rubber or GOOD SS brake lines, and a good fluid makes a big big difference. Your stock MC is just fine unless its defective (or you plan on using some 4-piston calipers).

You can use SC front calipers or Carrera calipers & rotors instead of the alloy S calipers for a better, more solid pedal feel. Both require "S" front struts if you don't have them.

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

You should check out our brake super kits here: 1974 Porsche 911 Base Coupe/Targa - Brake Super Kits. They have just about everything you'll need for the job front and rear. The nice thing about these kits is you can also delete items out once you add it to your cart. So if there is something in the kit you do not need/want you can simple just delete it and purchase only the parts you want.

And if you need help with the replacement be sure to check out our tech article here: Porsche 911 Brake Technical Articles - Pelican Parts. Let me know if you have any questions.

[DRACO A5OG]

Just remember your MC is old, so DO NOT PRESS the pedal all the way to the floor when bleeding with the two man style. Place a block of wood behind the pedal as not to damage the older MC.

[mbintx]

Thanks, everyone for the great info so far.

[DRACO A5OG]

Consider getting the Porterfield's R4S street pads.