Brake Restoration Costs for 1948 Ford F1 – Need Advice

[cjblank96]

Hey all, I recently inherited a 1948 Ford F1 and plan to sell it eventually, but the brakes are completely shot—the pedal goes straight to the floor with no resistance, though the emergency brake still works.

A guy from a local classic car club gave me a ballpark estimate of around $15k to fully restore the brakes, which seemed really high to me. Most brake jobs I’ve done myself have only cost a few hundred dollars. Is this kind of estimate normal for trucks this old, or is it way off?

For some context, the truck runs fine, has some surface rust (nothing structural), an engine swap (an I6 under 300 cubic inches), a 12-volt electrical system, and questionable wiring. The truck’s value in “fair” condition is around $18k, but I’d have to invest way more than that to get it there, according to the guy I spoke with.

I’m trying to avoid sinking too much into it before selling, so I’d appreciate any advice on whether this $15k brake estimate sounds reasonable for a truck like this, or if it’s out of bounds. Thanks!

Photos:

https://imgur.com/a/bgP18IB

 

[Beach66Bum]

That quote must be for a full disc brake conversion (cross drilled and slotted rotors) Wilwood master brake, stainless braided lines, etc.
Yup, you can spend a lot on brakes! Get another person to take a look. Since you are re-selling, getting the original drums, brake lines etc. all in order and working would be the way to go.
Give us an update

 

[Fellro]

Unless his labor is crazy high, I can't see how it can cost that much. Parts should be under $500 I would think.

 

[latvius]

Even 1.5k is high, just forget that guys number. If you plan to sell it why fix the brakes? Anyone who is going to buy it is planning to restore it (in some fashion) and they will either be doing the work or knows someone who is. It isn't going to be someone's daily driver to get groceries and if you do have the brakes fixed whatever you do the new owner will likely redo with an upgrade.