Should I need to adjust the push rod in the brake booster for the new master cylinder?

[Bgunner]

I am replacing the master cylinder on my 94 and when I took of the old one I noticed an adjustment on the push rod in the vacuum booster. Does this need to be adjusted for the new master or will it be fine?

I've replaced masters before but never saw an adjustment there before. This is why I ask.

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

Shouldn't need to, I replaced the master in my '85 with one for a '86 F-350 for my different brakes and I still didn't have to touch it.

It just adjusts the pedal height when it is pressed down.

 

[Bgunner]

Thanks @85_Ranger4x4. I figured it would be fine but wanted to double check.

One more quick question there was grease around the outer bore of the old master. Should I add a little grease to the new one and why is there grease there?

 

[85_Ranger4x4]

I did not notice grease on mine and did not add grease to the new one.

 

[ford4wd08]

I had to adjust mine on my '85. No granted, I don't have any ABS or anything, but it made a big difference on my brake pedal.

I thought this was a good reference for it: https://www.fullsizebronco.com/threads/brake-booster-pushrod-adjustment.178635/

 

[Eddo Rogue]

I think the adjustment is there just in case its needed. I would start off setting it to the length of the old one.

Any time a part comes in contact with another part, there will be friction and wear. some people greas them to reduce or prevent this. To grease or not to grease, that is the question. In this case I figure that there is such little friction and wear, that it will still outlast me, so I forego greasing to keep things clean and not attract dust. I live in a very dry environment, so water and rust is not an issue, but dust is. I say follow your heart on this one.

 

[Bgunner]

I think the adjustment is there just in case its needed. I would start off setting it to the length of the old one.

The adjustment is on the booster push rod itself and not being replaced just the master cylinder is. I may not have been clear on that part sorry.

The adjustment is what actually contacts the master. All the others I have seen and replaced just had a rounded nub that contacts the master and the adjustment was under that dash and not between the master cylinder and booster.

 

[Shran]

Install it as-is and see how your brakes feel. If they engage near the floor, it probably needs adjustment.

It is very important not to adjust it too far out. It will seem fine but your brakes will lock up after a few miles... if you mess with it at all, I would HIGHLY recommend having the tools with you to adjust it again in a parking lot in case you go too far.

 

[RobbieD]

Just went through this replacing the master cylinder on my '94 Explorer. I measured my push rod, and it did not need adjusting. Here is the factory shop manual brake master cylinder installation instructions for the '94 Ranger and Explorer:

You're likely fine just bolting the new one on, but this would the right procedure to check yours, if you'd like to be sure.

Hope it helps; good luck!