IIS300 Chase Bays Brake Booster: Upgrade Guide

Hey guys! If you're rolling with an IS300 and looking to seriously upgrade your braking performance, you've probably stumbled across the legendary Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Kit. This upgrade is a game-changer, ditching the stock brake booster for a setup that offers a more direct and responsive feel. This is perfect if you are looking to get rid of the stock booster system and want to install a sleek, high-performance upgrade. The Chase Bays kit is especially popular among enthusiasts who are serious about their track days or pushing their IS300s to the limit on the street. It's a significant upgrade that enhances the overall driving experience, giving you greater control and confidence when you need it most. Let's dive deep into why this is such a hot mod and how you can get it done!

Understanding the IIS300 Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete

So, what's the deal with ditching the stock brake booster, anyway? Well, the stock brake booster, which is a vacuum-assisted system, is designed to help you generate the necessary braking force. However, it can sometimes feel a bit mushy, especially when you're braking hard or at high speeds. That's where the Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Kit comes in. This kit replaces the bulky stock components with a more direct master cylinder setup, giving you a firmer, more precise brake feel. This means you get a much more immediate response when you hit the brakes, allowing for more consistent and controlled braking. This direct connection offers a higher level of feedback from the brakes, allowing you to modulate your braking force more precisely, which can be a huge advantage on the track or in spirited driving. The kits usually include a master cylinder, a proportioning valve, and all the necessary lines and fittings. The installation, while not super easy, is manageable for those with some mechanical experience. The resulting brake feel is a world of difference. Your braking will feel firmer and more responsive. The Chase Bays kit is designed for performance, offering a significant upgrade over the stock setup. The upgrade is also about looks. The Chase Bays kit often features a cleaner, more streamlined appearance in the engine bay.

The Benefits of Upgrading Your Brakes

There are several advantages to upgrading your IIS300 brakes with a Chase Bays kit. Here are a few key benefits:

Improved Brake Feel: The most noticeable change is the improved brake feel. The brake pedal becomes firmer and more responsive, giving you greater control over your braking. This will give you confidence on the road or track.
Enhanced Braking Performance: You'll experience more consistent and powerful braking. This is crucial for both safety and performance.
Increased Pedal Feedback: The direct connection to the master cylinder provides better feedback, allowing you to modulate your braking force more accurately. You will also feel the car's reaction better.
Reduced Stopping Distances: In some cases, you may be able to reduce your stopping distances, especially under hard braking conditions.
Aesthetic Upgrade: The Chase Bays kit offers a cleaner, more streamlined look under the hood. It just makes the car look better.

Planning the IIS300 Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Installation

Before you jump in, let's talk about getting prepared! This isn't a job for beginners, and proper planning is crucial for a smooth installation. First, make sure you have the right tools and a clean workspace. You'll need basic hand tools like wrenches, sockets, and screwdrivers, along with some specialty tools, such as a flare nut wrench, to avoid damaging the brake lines. Then, get a high-quality brake fluid, like DOT 4 or DOT 5.1, to ensure optimal performance. Read the instructions carefully, and be sure to watch videos. This will give you a better understanding of the installation process. Consider the overall scope of the project. This will help you know the total time needed to finish the project. The installation usually involves removing the stock brake booster and master cylinder, installing the new master cylinder, running new brake lines, and bleeding the brakes. Here is a list of things to keep in mind:

Safety First: Always disconnect the battery before working on your car's electrical system.
Workspace: Have a clean, well-lit workspace to work in.
Tools: Gather all the necessary tools before you start. It's frustrating to stop in the middle of a project to search for a tool.
Instructions: Read and understand the Chase Bays kit's instructions. Watch videos, too.
Brake Fluid: Have plenty of the correct type of brake fluid on hand.
Patience: Don't rush the process. Take your time, and do it right the first time.

Required Tools and Components

Here’s a general list of tools and components you'll likely need to tackle this project:

| Read Also : Find The Best Hygrometer And Thermometer Near You!

Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Kit: This is the core of the upgrade.
Wrenches and Sockets: A complete set of wrenches and sockets (metric) is essential.
Flare Nut Wrenches: These are designed to grip brake line fittings securely without damaging them.
Brake Line Bender: You may need this to bend brake lines for a perfect fit.
Brake Fluid: High-quality DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Brake Bleeder: A brake bleeder tool or a helper to assist with bleeding the brakes.
Jack and Jack Stands: For safely lifting and supporting the car.
Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect yourself.
Torque Wrench: For tightening fittings to the correct specifications.

IIS300 Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Installation Guide

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and walk through the installation process. Always consult the instructions provided with the Chase Bays kit. These steps are a general guide, and specifics may vary.

Step-by-Step Installation

Preparation: Start by disconnecting the negative terminal of your car's battery. This is a crucial safety step. Then, secure your car on jack stands. Make sure it's level and stable. Remove the wheels to access the brake components more easily. Drain the brake fluid from the system by opening the bleed valves at each caliper. Use a container to catch the fluid.
Removing Stock Components: Disconnect the brake lines from the master cylinder. Use a flare nut wrench to avoid damaging the fittings. Remove the master cylinder from the brake booster. Then, remove the brake booster itself. This might involve unbolting it from the firewall and disconnecting any vacuum lines. Take your time during this step.
Installing the Chase Bays Kit: Install the new master cylinder from the Chase Bays kit. Follow the kit's instructions for mounting and connecting the master cylinder to the brake pedal. This usually involves adapting the pedal rod.
Running Brake Lines: Install the new brake lines included in the kit. Make sure to route the lines neatly and securely, avoiding any sharp bends or contact with moving parts. Use a brake line bender if needed. Tighten all fittings to the manufacturer's specifications.
Bleeding the Brakes: This is the most critical step. Fill the master cylinder with fresh brake fluid. Start bleeding the brakes at the caliper furthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear passenger side). Open the bleed valve and either pump the brake pedal (with a helper) or use a brake bleeder tool to remove air from the system. Repeat this process for each wheel, working your way towards the master cylinder.
Final Checks: After bleeding the brakes, top off the brake fluid in the master cylinder. Check for leaks at all fittings. Test the brake pedal feel. It should be firm and responsive. Take the car for a short test drive in a safe area to ensure everything is working correctly. Check the brake feel once more.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Installing a Chase Bays brake booster delete kit can sometimes present a few challenges. Here's a quick guide to troubleshooting common issues you might encounter:

Air in the Brake Lines

Issue: Spongy brake pedal feel.
Solution: The most common culprit is air trapped in the brake lines. Re-bleed the brakes thoroughly, making sure to follow the correct bleeding sequence (furthest from the master cylinder to closest).

Leaks at Fittings

Issue: Brake fluid leaks.
Solution: Check that all fittings are tightened to the proper torque specifications. If the leak persists, try replacing the sealing washers or using thread sealant designed for brake systems. Make sure the brake lines are properly seated.

Soft Pedal Feel

Issue: Brake pedal feels soft, even after bleeding.
Solution: Double-check the brake lines and fittings for any leaks. Ensure that the master cylinder is compatible with your brake calipers. Sometimes, a different master cylinder bore size is needed. Another reason can be a faulty master cylinder.

Maintaining Your Upgraded Brake System

After successfully installing your Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Kit, you'll want to keep your brake system in top shape. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your brakes perform optimally and last. Here’s a basic maintenance guide:

Routine Maintenance

Brake Fluid Flush: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can decrease its performance and cause corrosion. Flush and replace your brake fluid every 1-2 years, or more frequently if you track your car. Choose a high-quality DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid.
Brake Pad Inspection: Regularly inspect your brake pads for wear. Replace them when they are worn down to the minimum thickness. This will depend on your driving style.
Brake Rotor Inspection: Check your brake rotors for warping, scoring, or excessive wear. Resurface or replace them as needed.
Brake Line Inspection: Inspect your brake lines for any signs of damage, leaks, or corrosion. Replace any damaged lines immediately.
Bleed the Brakes: Bleed your brakes annually or more often if you experience any spongy pedal feel.

Long-Term Care and Considerations

Brake Fluid: Always use the correct type of brake fluid specified by the manufacturer.
Brake Pads: Select brake pads appropriate for your driving style and the intended use of your car. Performance pads are great for track use.
Professional Inspection: Have a professional mechanic inspect your brake system regularly, especially if you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in brake performance.
Storage: If you store your car for an extended period, consider using a moisture-absorbing agent in the brake fluid reservoir to prevent moisture buildup.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your IS300's brakes with a Chase Bays Brake Booster Delete Kit is a great way to significantly enhance your car's braking performance and overall driving experience. While the installation process requires some mechanical knowledge and careful attention to detail, the results are well worth the effort. With improved brake feel, enhanced stopping power, and a more responsive pedal, you'll gain greater control and confidence behind the wheel. Always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer's instructions. If you're not comfortable with the installation, seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic. Enjoy the improved performance and the thrill of driving your upgraded IS300!