1955-1959 Chevy 2nd Series 3100, 3200, 3600, 3800 Truck Brake Parts
One collection serves everything from 1/2-ton 3100 pickups to heavier 3600 and 3800 trucks, so choosing by year alone is not enough. Compare disc brake conversions, power-assist systems, master cylinders, hydraulic controls, lines, and related parts built around different 1955-59 Chevy and GMC truck configurations.
Brake Systems for 1955-59 Chevy and GMC Trucks
On 1955-59 Chevy and GMC trucks, lug count quickly reveals how different the brake requirements can be within one generation. A 3100 can move toward either a 5- or 6-lug front disc setup, while the heavier 3600 and 3800 trucks require dedicated 8-lug conversions built around their hubs, bearings, and greater-duty hardware.
That split continues into complete systems. A 3100 retaining the traditional 6 x 5.5-inch pattern can combine 12-inch front discs with power assistance, while an 8-lug 3600 or 3800 follows an entirely separate conversion path rather than adapting half-ton components.
Brake assist introduces a different choice: where the system lives. Frame-mounted boosters can work with the original pedal and master-cylinder location, firewall-mounted systems move the booster and master cylinder upward, and Hydropower versions replace engine vacuum with pressure from the power-steering circuit.
Master cylinders, proportioning and residual valves, bearing components, hoses, lines, and pedal hardware fill the gaps between those configurations, letting the brake system match the truck’s actual ton rating and wheel setup rather than just its model year.
FAQ
How do I choose brake parts for my 1955-59 Chevy or GMC truck?
Start by identifying whether the truck is a 3100, 3200, 3600, or 3800 and confirm its ton rating. Then check the wheel bolt pattern, front axle and spindle configuration, rear end, current brake type, master cylinder location, and whether the brakes are manual or power assisted. These details are especially important because this collection covers both lighter 1/2-ton trucks and heavier 3/4- and 1-ton applications.
Should I choose a 5-lug, 6-lug, or 8-lug disc brake conversion?
The correct choice depends on the truck series and the wheel and axle configuration you want to retain. 3100 applications include 5- and 6-lug front conversions, while 3600 and 3800 trucks have dedicated 8-lug options. Check the rear wheel pattern as well so the front conversion works with the wheels and overall drivetrain configuration planned for the truck.
Are 8-lug disc brake conversions available for 3600 and 3800 trucks?
Yes. POL offers dedicated front disc brake conversions for 1947-59 Chevy/GMC 3600 and 3800 trucks, including a Deluxe version. These systems are designed around the heavier-duty 3/4- and 1-ton applications and retain an 8-lug configuration.
Should I use a firewall-mounted or frame-mounted power brake booster?
That depends on the truck's current pedal and master-cylinder arrangement, available space, and how much of the original layout you want to retain. POL's frame-mounted 1955-59 booster uses the original master-cylinder frame bracket and factory pedal assembly. Firewall-mounted systems provide another configuration and include standard, BlackOut, chrome, and LS-conversion-oriented choices.
Can I use Hydropower brake assist on a 1955-59 Chevy or GMC truck?
Yes. POL offers both frame- and firewall-mounted Hydropower configurations for these trucks. Instead of depending on engine vacuum, Hydropower uses hydraulic pressure from the power-steering pump to provide brake assistance. This can be useful on modified builds where engine vacuum is limited or hydraulic assistance better suits the overall setup.
Which master cylinder do I need for my 1955-59 truck?
Match the master cylinder to the brake configuration rather than selecting by model year alone. Determine whether the truck has drum/drum, disc/drum, or four-wheel-disc brakes and whether the system is manual or power assisted. The collection includes a manual drum-brake master cylinder kit, a 1-inch bore GM Corvette-style disc master cylinder, aluminum packages, and Wilwood configurations with adjustable proportioning.
What should I check before ordering a complete disc brake conversion?
Confirm the truck series, ton rating, front axle and spindle configuration, wheel bolt pattern, rear brakes, master cylinder, proportioning setup, wheel clearance, and whether you want manual or power assistance. Also check what the individual conversion includes. A 3100 5- or 6-lug build has different requirements from a 3600 or 3800 retaining an 8-lug setup.