fits make: Ford, Mercury. year: 1941–1948.

( Brand: Wagner ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: FC38114 ), ( Type: Brake Cable ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Vintage Part: Yes )
The **Wagner FC38114 Brake Cable** is a meticulously crafted, high-quality replacement part designed specifically for the rear brake systems of **1941 through 1948 Ford Mercury passenger vehicles**, ensuring optimal braking performance and reliability for classic automobiles from this era. Engineered to meet the exacting standards of vintage automotive restoration and maintenance, this brake cable is constructed from durable, corrosion-resistant materials to withstand the demands of daily use while preserving the original aesthetic and functionality of your vehicle. The cable features a robust, flexible steel core encased in a smooth, polished outer sheath, allowing for smooth operation and easy installation without the need for excessive adjustment. Its precise length and threading are tailored to fit seamlessly into the rear brake assembly, ensuring proper tension and alignment with the brake shoes or drum mechanism. Whether you're restoring a showroom-worthy Mercury or maintaining a daily driver, this Wagner cable delivers the strength and precision required to keep your braking system in peak condition. Built to last, it minimizes wear on associated components and reduces the risk of cable stretch or failure, making it an indispensable upgrade for enthusiasts seeking both performance and longevity in their classic vehicles.
**Pros and Cons of buying a Wagner FC38114 Brake Cable (1941 1948 Ford Mercury Passenger Rear)**
### **Pros:**1. **Direct Fitment** The Wagner FC38114 is specifically designed for 1941 1948 Ford Mercury passenger vehicles, ensuring compatibility without modification. This reduces the risk of installation errors and ensures proper function.
2. **High-Quality Materials** Wagner is a reputable brand known for durable, corrosion-resistant brake components. The cable is likely made from hardened steel or similar materials to withstand wear and prevent stretching over time.
3. **Easy Installation** As a direct-replacement part, it should be straightforward to install, especially for those with basic mechanical experience. No special tools or expertise are typically required beyond standard brake maintenance procedures.
4. **Cost-Effective Solution** Compared to rebuilding or replacing an entire brake system, replacing just the cable is a budget-friendly fix. It avoids the labor costs associated with more extensive repairs.
5. **Prevents Further Damage** A worn or broken brake cable can lead to complete brake failure, which poses a safety risk. Replacing it early prevents more severe (and costly) issues like drum or shoe damage.
6. **Availability** Wagner parts are widely stocked at auto shops, online retailers, and specialty brake stores, making it easy to source without long waits.
7. **Compatibility with Other Wagner Parts** If you ve used Wagner components before, this cable will integrate seamlessly with their other brake hardware (e.g., shoes, springs), ensuring consistency in performance.
---
### **Cons:**1. **Age of the Vehicle** Vehicles from the 1940s may have additional wear or rust in surrounding components (e.g., brake drums, springs, or mounting points). The cable itself may be fine, but other parts could fail shortly after installation, requiring further repairs.
2. **Limited Lifespan** Even high-quality brake cables degrade over time due to friction, corrosion, or improper adjustment. While this cable is durable, it may still need replacement every 50,000 100,000 miles, depending on usage and conditions.
3. **Potential for Misalignment** If the cable isn t adjusted correctly during installation, it could cause uneven brake pad/drum pressure, leading to squeaking, dragging, or reduced stopping power. This requires careful attention during setup.
4. **No Warranty on Secondary Damage** If the cable fails due to a manufacturing defect, Wagner may replace it, but they typically won t cover damage caused by improper installation or pre-existing issues in the brake system.
5. **Rust and Corrosion Risk** Older vehicles are prone to rust, which can weaken the cable s housing or anchor points. If the vehicle has been stored in damp conditions, the cable may already be compromised before installation.
6. **Skill Dependency** While simple, installing a brake cable requires some mechanical knowledge. A poorly installed cable (e.g., improper tension or routing) can lead to brake failure or premature wear.
7. **Limited Customization** Unlike modern brake systems, there s little room for upgrading (e.g., performance cables or adjustable tensioners). The Wagner FC38114 is a standard replacement with no enhanced features.
---
### **Conclusion:**The Wagner FC38114 brake cable is a **reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-install** solution for restoring proper brake function to your 1941 1948 Ford Mercury. Its direct fitment and durability make it a practical choice for basic maintenance. However, the age of the vehicle introduces risks like hidden rust or worn adjacent components, which could necessitate additional repairs. If the rest of the brake system (drums, shoes, springs) is in good condition, this cable will serve its purpose well. For vehicles with extensive rust or unknown maintenance history, a thorough inspection of the entire brake assembly is advisable before installation.
---
### **Recommendation:** - **Buy the Wagner FC38114** if:- You re confident in your ability to install it correctly.
- The rest of the brake system (drums, shoes, springs) appears serviceable.
- You re looking for a quick, affordable fix without major overhauls.
- You have access to basic tools (wire cutters, pliers, socket set).
- **Consider additional steps if:**- The vehicle shows signs of rust or uneven brake wear inspect or replace drums, shoes, and springs simultaneously.
- You re unsure about installation consult a mechanic or seek a tutorial to avoid misalignment.
- The brake system hasn t been serviced in years budget for a full brake overhaul to prevent future issues.
For most DIYers with a functional brake system otherwise, the Wagner FC38114 is a **strong, practical choice**. If budget allows, pairing it with a brake inspection ensures long-term reliability.
It is specifically designed for 1941-1948 Ford and Mercury model's, featuring a total cable length of 107-1/2 inches to meet original factory specifications. A Note on Fitment Accuracy: We manually research and cross-reference our fitment data using vintage manufacturer catalogs. Position: Rear. Origin: Made in the USA.
Key Features:: Brand: Wagner. Condition: NORS New Old Replacement Stock. Cable length : 107-1/2. Unbeatable Prices Expectations: While many of our vintage parts were manufactured decades ago, they remain unused and high-quality.
These slight aesthetic differences are a result of historical production processes and do not impact the parts integrity, performance, or authenticity. Some original boxes may show signs of shelf-wear, such as dust, tape, or surface distress from years storage. Manufactured in the USA by Wagner, this high-quality assembly ensures reliable engagement and safe vehicle security for a period-correct restoration. Part Number: FC38114.
Genuine Wagner FC38114 Brake Cable NORS: This New Old Replacement Stock NORS rear brake cable is a critical component for restoring the emergency parking system on WWII-era and early post-war Ford Mercury passenger cars.