How do I remove brake booster assembly on a 57? Help!

lancemb · April 18th, 2009

I am sure some of you long time experts have removed the master/booster assembly and have already either learned from trials and tribulations or perhaps I am missing something here?

I tried with no success to remove the large nut under the dash that holds the booster on - There is no room! The chassis manual calls for use of wrench 6618 - whatever that is! As best as I can tell it is about a 1-3/4" nut, but no standard wrench that large would ever fit in there!

Does anybody know where I can get a wrench to take this nut off? Thanks!

40series · April 18th, 2009

Hi Lance,

That nut has to come off. No other way. I did a 58 a few years back and literally had to make a wrench by grinding the outer radius of the head.

imported_Pete Phillips · April 18th, 2009

I think I used a big channel-lock pliers to get that off when I had my '58. It is not easy, but can be done. You do not need to have the factory wrench.
Pete Phillips
Sherman, Texas

lancemb · April 18th, 2009

I tried channel locks but by the time I got them up there there was no room to move them. I also thought of making my own as 40series suggested but was convinced there was a better way.

I consulted a 58 expert I know and he said what he has always done is use a long chisel and a heavy hammer to break it loose, after which it comes off easily. So, I went and equipped myself with said tools but haven't had time to sork on it again now. I'll report back with results. In the meantime if anyone has that wrench, I'd love to try that instead!

40series · April 18th, 2009

That works but you have a 50/50 chance off damaging the nut

sean1997 · April 19th, 2009

Not sure if this helps any, but I have a "Kent-Moore 1957 Buick Essential Service Tools" brochure. It has a picture of tool 6618. I've attached it so you can see what it looks like. It looks like you disconnect the push rod and then slip the wrench over it.

Smartin · April 19th, 2009

If the dash is completely removed, is it easier to get to?

imported_buick5563 · April 19th, 2009

That looks a lot like a modern plumbing wrench that you remove shower valves with. Might check your local hardware store's plumbing section.

lancemb · April 20th, 2009

Wow, thanks for the illustration Sean!

Mike, do you know what size shower valves are?

*Does anyone know for sure what size this nut is?

imported_buick5563 · April 20th, 2009

Lance,
I think I have seen them as a "kit" with five of the socket looking things and a straight "wrench". Maybe 7/8" to 1 1/2"???? If you need a LOT of torque, it may not work. Just when I saw the pic, that's what it reminded me of.