Ok, an Easter Sunday question for the brake specialists.
I changed the brake fluid reservoir about a month ago and yesterday was the first time I have moved the car since then. The brake pedal is real hard, the car barely stops, and the brake light is on on the dash. Could it be that I don't have enough fluid in the reservoir? I can see the fluid but it is at the bottom of that small well where the cap fits into (my terminology stinks on that one). I had an issue before with too much fluid and didn't want it overflowing. If that is not it, what could it be? Nothing else was touched during the process.....just changed the reservoir.
Thanks In Advance,
Gary
Could possibly be the brake booster pump relay, or the pump itself, or the pressure switch. Is everything hooked up? There is a further diagnosis in the FAQ's for the hard pedal. Look for the booster diag
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If everything checks out fine, check the ignition switch. I went through every step of the diag and ended up scratching my head after I replaced the relay, checked the wiring, and replaced the pump and pressure switch with no luck. In the end it was the ignition switch
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Hope this helps.
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Ryan Harris
1988 TC 5 speed, all options including sunroof. Currently installing: Walbro 255 LPH HP, Star stage III, Kirban AFPR, 3" DP to 2.5" duals, bypassed cat, Magnaflow mufflers
I didnt see it mentioned, but did you bleed the brakes after puttting on the reservoir?
Bob Myers
FLuid level should be checked with the accumulator charged. Pump pedal about 10 times, then turn key to RUN. You should hear the hyd. booster pump run to 10 to 20 seconds. There is a MAX line on the reservoir on the side facing the driver side.
If fluid is low, either the red BRAKE light or the BRAKE light and ABS lights should be on, depending on how low the fluid is.
If the pump doesnt run, you will need to do some electrical troubleshooting. A good start would be the FAQ page articel on pump relay diagnosis.
Bob is correct, the brakes should be bled.
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Jeff Korn
88 Turbo Coupe: Intake and exhaust mods, T3 turbo at 21 psi, forced air intercooler, water injection, bypass valve, Ranger roller cam, subframes, etc., etc.. // 86 Tbird 5.0 (original owner): intake, exhaust, valvetrain mods, 100 HP nitrous, ignition, gears, suspension, etc., etc.... // 91 Escort: Bone stock winter car // 04 Taurus Duratec (wifes car)
Ok, reservoir full, accumulator charged, booster pump runs with key on. Now all I have to do is bleed the brakes. I'll keep you updated. Gonna be hard to get the wife to help today being it's Easter....lol. Guess I'll fine something else to chrome.
Thanks Everyone!
Gary