Can 66 'A' brakes be upgraded to the "improved" type?
 

According to the 337 history document from Cessna Pilots, the 67 (or B model) had "improved" brakes. According to various sources of 337 performance specifications (e.g. Bill's), that model reflects this with a notably shorter landing distance. Since I'm interested in short field performance, I wondered if the A (or the original unlettered model) can be upgraded to the later type brake, practically.

Brakes
 

YC,
I think practically - the later model brakes should work - it looks to be the same torque plate and brake disk assembly for the various models. As you can see, there are different P/N/s assemblies for the brake caliper assemblies themselves - but the structure they attach too and squeeze are all the same.

Practical is always different than approved...

Jeff

Thanks Jeff. I noticed the "when exhausted" part you highlighted there. So seems to indicate that you can upgrade, and are essentially directed to do just that. Am I reading that wrong?

-Gray-

Gray,
You are reading that correct - however you have to look at the applicability code for your serial number aircraft. If you are S/N 0001 thru 0525, your brake P/N is only 1241157-3. If you are after S/N 0525, then there are some options on the brakes once exhausted.

All that being said, physically, they are all identical. As near as I can tell, the 1241157-3 is a Cleveland 30-61 brake assembly. The B model and later with Brake C163030-405 is a Cleveland 30-61D brake assembly. I have attached the pages from the Parker parts breakdown, and the only difference I can find between these brakes, is the pistons are different (same size though) as they have a little spring on them. There is no difference in sizes, brake linings, etc, so my assessment is that there is no performance difference in these brakes, other than a small improvement on the piston to help keeping them from sticking...maybe?
Jeff

Yes, you should be able to no problem in fact I upgraded at 336 to the later model brakes, no major issues at all

Thanks, both. This is handy to know.

General,

Out of curiosity did you notice any improvement in stopping ability?

-Gray-

Yes, early Sky Masters especially the 336 even had smaller thickness disc, and if you were doing a lot of texting they get real hot if you had both engines.
running.
I know it probably made a 10% to 15% difference in stopping in a whole lot better dependability.