The first up-grade most people make on their 4x4s is bigger tires and wheels, for both looks and ground clearance. The problem is these same people rarely improve the brake system to compensate for the massive tires and wheels, which can sometimes get them in trouble. Not only is there more weight for the stock brakes to contend with, but the centrifugal force of the larger-diameter tires is much more difficult to deal with, and better brakes are a must. Of course, bigger rotors, better pads, and decreasing vehicle weight can help, but there are other ways as well.
One simple solution for '76-'86 CJs equipped with power brakes and a spacer/transfer bar between the booster and the firewall is to alter the brake linkage geometry, thereby putting extra force on the braking system from your foot without going outside the safety parameters. Tri County Gear offers a slick little adjustable brake pushrod and instructions on how to deal with this, and it's relatively simple to install. Simply remove the stock pushrod and spacer bracket, drill a few holes, and put it all back together. You'll be surprised how much better the Jeep will stop with less effort.
The bracket between the firewall and the vacuum booster unbolts without breaking any fluid lines. The hardest part of the job is unclipping the pushrod from the brake pedal while underneath the dash. After that, it's smooth going. | 
The pushrod comes off the transfer bar after the clip is removed. Both the bar and the bracket get holes drilled in them about 3/4 applied force on the power booster. | 
After measuring, marking, center punching, and drilling the transfer bar, the same is done to the bracket. No, don't do this in sandals or without the bracket being securely held down. This is for photographic purposes only. Really. Simply put everything back together in the new holes and adjust the pushrod for proper clearance, and you've got about 30 percent better braking for your Jeep. |