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What should I expect from manual brakes?

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Thor

Thor

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I've got a question about the brakes on my 1500. All my other cars have always had power brakes so I am not sure what I should be expecting. So for instance when coming to a stop does one routinely have to pump the brakes a couple of times to build pressure? When I first step on them there is about 2/3rd pedal travel but after two pumps they are firm. Is that normal? Also if I come to a stop light and am holding pressure on the brake pedal I can slowly feel the pressure ebbing away over a couple of minutes. Then I have to pump the brakes to restore full pressure.

Is this normal or an indication that the master cylinder is going. I checked the brake fluid and that is at a good level. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 
Sounds like a failing master cylinder to me. One good stomp should lock the wheels and keep them locked. However, you should inspect the wheel cylinders and calipers for leaks, and also replace any cracked brake hoses.
 
Your brakes shold work the same as your family car. No slop, no pumping, etc etc. Remember the car is light by compairson.

Yyou should have a nice hard peddle with maybe a quarter to a half inch soft spot at the top. No pumping required.

Your master cylinder needs rebuilding and or replaceing so now is the time to do all the wheel cylinders and the clutch side and slave cylinder as well. While doing this perge all the old fluid out and start fresh.

If the master cylinder is pited it needs replaced or rebuilt, wheel cylinders also. ie sleaved etc. Many places do this if you need a link ask pls.

Do the whole thing at one time, the car is old and needs some maintance so it is good for another 20 years.
 
They are all very right!! Randi /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/jester.gif
 
Your brake pedal should be solid and you should not have to pump up the brakes. I own a 76 1500 Midget and the brake pedal is rock solid. My brake system has been rebuilt (rebuilt master cylinder & front calipers, new rear wheel cylinders, pads & shoes). Your system either has air in the lines or one or more of the following is leaking (master cylinder, front calipers, or rear wheel cylinders).
 
one last thing to add make sure to check rear brake adjustment its easy enough to do but please have someone check your brake system if u can't or don't know how
 
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