Section 12 (Brakes - Repair): Troubleshooting: Notes

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Brake performance is mainly affected by 3 things: the level and condition of the brake fluid, the brake system's ability to create and maintain hydraulic pressure, and condition of the friction components. Tires and wheels are important parts of the braking system. Check tires for wear, flat spots, trueness and proper inflation. Visually check the hydraulic system starting at the master cylinder. Check all brake fluid lines and couplings for leaks, kinks, chafing and corrosion.

On vehicles with vacuum brake booster, check brake booster by pumping brake pedal approximately 10 times with the engine off. Then hold down brake pedal and start engine. Pedal should fall slightly. If not, check for any visible faults before suspecting a faulty brake booster. Check for strong vacuum at vacuum hose fitting on booster. Ensure vacuum check valve has one-way flow. For trouble shooting symptoms, see SYMPTOM INDEX table.

SYMPTOM INDEX

Symptom	See Symptom Table
Brakes Pull To One Side	A
Brakes Excessively Hot While Driving	B
Poor Braking Effect In Spite Of Great Force On Pedal, Brake Pedal Travel Normal	C
Poor Braking Effect In Spite Of Great Force On Pedal, Brake Pedal Travel Short	C
Poor Braking Effect In Spite Of Great Force On Pedal, Brake Pedal Travel Long	C
Brake Pedal Motion Too Soft & Spongy	D
Brake Pedal Travel Is Excessive Even Though Brakes Have Been Bled & Adjusted	E
Uneven Pad Wear	F
Brake Pads Worn At Angle	G
Seized Brake Pads, Pad Does Not Move Off Brake Disc	H
Brakes Squeal Or Rattle	I
Brake Pedal Dead Travel Excessive	J
Jammed Piston In Brake Caliper	K
Pulsating Effect On Brake Pedal	L
Handbrake Effect Insufficient	M