The Feel Between Manual and Power Brakes

My friend has a hot rod shop and sees alot of that (aftermarket boosters usually based on some GM product). Often not so well done. Your experience is not unusual if that makes you feel better.

I agree with the others. Without power assist, the brake pedal should feel firmer and take a little more effort, but not a lot with an a-body. Disks take more pedal effort because most drums are self assisting.

Pedal effort and 'feel' under different conditions can be adjusted with lining, prop valve and wheel cylinder size IF you want to later on.