Power Brake Problem

I have a 1976 MGB that I enjoy driving as much as I can. It's not perfect, but its fun, it's paid for, and it's a great tranquilizer. However, I am having problems with the brakes, specifically, the power brake booster. When I step on the brake, I hear what sounds like a vacumn leak and the engine runs rough. When I disconnect and plug the vacumn line to the booster, this problem stops, but the brakes are not as effective as they once were. Is this problem caused by the brake booster itself or could it be the one-way valve that the vacumn hose attaches to the brake booster? Is there someway to test this out, or do I just bite the bullet and order a new brake booster and valve? Is there someway to do away with the power brakes and will the system still exert enough pressure to ensure that the front disk brakes work? I know, lots of questions, but bear with me, I am a beginner.

Thanks in advance for your help and I really enjoy this forum.

Earlier cars were not much lighter and just used the dual m/c, so yes, you could just do that.
What about your hose? They break.

That was the first thing I thought of and replaced the hose, but still the same results. I've been driving it with the hose removed and plugged, but it just doesn't seem to have the stopping power it once had. I have also replaced the front brake pads and the rear shoes, but that was before the booster started acting up.

Hi Danny,
if you mean that when the brake pedal is held down you get a continious hiss, it is a sign that the diaphragm has failed.
Yes you can get a re-build kit for the servo, BUT the servo does contain a STRONG SPRING which if you have never done this job before may COST you some MAJOR DENTAL work.
If your lucky either Chris Roop or Tony Barnhill may have a good used one for sale

Cheers Ric

Danny, you don't show what area of Texas you are in. I do have a '76 parts car with a low mileage (45,000 ish) booster in it.

Thanks for your responses. I have found a brake booster that I can get from our local Autozone. The cost is a little over $100 with a core exchange. Has anyone had experiences (good or bad) with these units from Autozone? I am pretty sure it's a rebuilt unit, but they do have a good warranty program. I've been amazed at the availability of parts from them for my MG.

Danny

Jimmy, you have a PM.