VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Mechanical - Engine, Trans, etc Steering box upgrade 38 Master Deluxe

Hi guys, I’m fairly new to the world of early Chevy’s but I’ve been working for 3 years now restoring a 2 door 1938 Master Deluxe over in the UK. I’m trying my best to keep everything as original as I can but wanted to improve the braking and steering box. I’ve more or less completed all glass, electrics (now 12volt), interior and upholstery, bodywork, mechanics etc but the steering box is far too worn to leave and I want it improved. Steering joints etc have all been overhauled and I’m in the process of modifying the steering box, I’ve removed the original (steering shaft worm was damaged) and manufactured a bracket to original fixings on chassis to take an early model Landrover box which has the correct action for retaining the original linkages apart from the drop arm. My question is, have any other members done work like this mod before or give constructive advice on their experiences? I’ve kept the original steering wheel and column but cut off the end worm to fit a carrier bearing and universal joint onto the input to the new box.
I’m also looking to vastly improve safety on the brakes by installing a dual system master cylinder keeping the cylinder location under the floor and having remote reservoir. I’ve found a dual cylinder of the same 1” bore which also has a brake pressure switch that I’m looking to bracket up for the location.
Remember that I’m over in the UK so parts are rare and I’m trying to use locally sourced items, US parts are very expensive to import as you can imagine.

I will comment on the master cylinder. There is a fairly common method where they use the original cylinder as a mount. This is the master cylinder that has a flat top to the reservoir. They fabricate a mount that fits on the old master, and holds the new one on the rear. All the internals are removed and a longer push rod is installed to reach through to the new master. I think Buffalo Enterprises use to make these and someone like Chevs of the 40s might have them. I mention this in case there may be photos online to help you.

Thank you ”˜Old216’ I’ll look into that idea, just don’t like the thought of an overly long rod on the braking system. I may fabricate a bracket which will house the brake and clutch arms as well as attach plate for cylinder. Still trying to not have to import bits from US or Canada, too expensive. If I can make something I will. I could do with pics and dimensions if someone has modded their own.

That would put the master back in the original position, which would be good.