Brakes on 1970 Overlander

[TroutStream]

I'm scheduled to pick-up our 1970 Overlander in the next few days, and in the interests of safety I am trying to find out about the trailer brake system. The current owner has sold his tow vehicle and doesn't recall the brake system. He thinks their electric, or hydraulic, or both... Does anyone know what the original system is? and what modifications I can expect to make to a '98 GMC 1500 4WD Ext cab. The truck OM says I can tap into my hydraulic brake system if the trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi.

Thanks,

Ken.

[thenewkid64]

Originally Posted by TroutStream

Does anyone know what the original system is?

Ken,

a 1970 Overlander should have electric brakes. They hydraulic ones went out in the late 50's

[TroutStream]

Brett,

Thanks, that sounds easier, is it? Presumably the brake controller runs between my battery and the trailer wiring?

Also, I assume the the trailer light wiring will require an adapter to plug into the newer light plug on the truck?

Thanks,

Ken.

[thenewkid64]

Ken,

Yes and, Yes.

There may be a trailer prewire on your truck. I would look under the dash for a connector for a brake controller. Someone else with the same truck should pop in and tell you based on their experience.

You may need to rewire the umbilical code between the truck and trailer. I would ask the seller if they have one. If so you will need to take an end that matches your truck with you. There are wiring diagrams on the Airstream site, but take a volt meter, who knows what you will find

[Diesel Pusher]

Originally Posted by thenewkid64

Ken,

a 1970 Overlander should have electric brakes. They hydraulic ones went out in the late 50's

Actually, my 77 Excella 500 came with 12" hydraulic discs all around. Parts are hard to find and my truck is diesel, thus does not create vacuum. I had to change over to electric drum brakes. Just had it done two weeks ago. It cost around $950 for break away switch, four drum brakes, installation etc.

It is a shame too, because I have heard that the hyraulic discs really worked well.

[Action]

Do you have the old disc brake set up?

If so I believe ther are pepl on this Forum that would buy them from you.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Action

[Diesel Pusher]

I don't have them. The man who did the work kept them. I am aware how hard the parts are to find. It is a shame b/c i hear they really worked well at the time.

[suprtrker]

I have a 1977 International with vaccume breaks. Bought a 12 volt Vaccume pump for 20 bucks . works great.