2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Brake Fluid Leak

[BryceC]

I have a pretty steady brake fluid leak. It seems to be coming from an aluminum valve between what I think is the ABS unit and the front brakes. It has a brass plunger in the center that moves up and down. The fluid leaks from this point. I am attaching a picture. Has anyone seen a leak like this before? Is there an o-ring or something in this valve (mystery part?) that can be replaced?





Thanks,

Bryce

 

[Joe Mc]

I'm sure the dealer would tell you this is a non-serviceable part. But, they'll tell you the same thing about the fuel tank module. If it were me I'd throw some rags under the valve thingy and wrench it off to see if it was just an "O"-ring. Probably all it is too. Be carefull sometimes these things are spring loaded so keep a hand on top of that wrench when loosening it if you choose to explore. I'm sure others will respond that have had this leak. -MHO

 

[DLausche]

I'm not sure of the official name of that thingy, but I would describe it as a pressure differential switch. The way I understand it is that there is an electrical switch/circuit in this thing that will close and turn on the check brake light if there is a large enough pressure difference in the front vs rear hydraulic circuits (i. e. a major leak somewhere). My truck does not have ABS, but it does have that part in your pic. I am with Joe in that it is probably not serviceable, but what the heck, might as well give it a try. Maybe a good idea to have a line on a replacement one prior to attempting to dissasemble it. Probably expensive from the dealer so I would go with a used one from a salvage yard. One other note I can add is that there was some special procedure outlined in the factory service manual regarding this thing and brake bleed procedure. I don't remember the details but it had something to do with pushing and/or pulling on the plunger in the center top (and maybe bottom?) when bleeding in order to allow air to pass through.



-Deon

 

[Joe Mc]

there was some special procedure outlined in the factory service manual regarding this thing and brake bleed procedure. it had something to do with pushing and/or pulling on the plunger in the center top (and maybe bottom?) when bleeding in order to allow air to pass through. -Deon

Deon - Thanks!!!

Duh! #@$%!stupid arse me. Maybe that's why my brakes feel like they are lower than they're supposed to be - after I bled all fours. I'll have to check the manual - Did I ever mention "I hate drum brakes". Probably at least 50 times

 

[DLausche]

Hey, glad I could help. Actually made this mistake on mine last month. Then read the manual after I had finished and thought the brakes were soft and on the low side and found the blurb in the manual about this valve and bleeding procedure. Have not had time yet to fix it properly but hopefully I will soon.



I'm right there with ya on the drum brakes. Hate 'em!



-Deon

 

[Joe Mc]

Not to steal the thread - but just have to ask a favor of Deon - if you get it this weekend let me know if it's the fix and I will do likewise.

I just don't know if I'll be able to get to the truck this weekend as a buddy of mine is coming to town and he wants us to go see Aerosmith Oo. with him and his lady on Saturday in Camden, NJ. Now all I have to do is coax wifey into going. :-{} Wish me luck. :-laf

 

[Joe Mc]

Hey Deon, Did you ever get to try the bleeding blurb from the manual? I looked in mine this past weekend and the only reference I could find on this valve was to either hold in the up or press in the down position the little stub when "POWER BLEEDING". As far as regular bleeding the manual recommends not pressing on the pedal (???) but to allow to natural bleed, then place a clear hose on bleeder, stick it in (oh baby) a container with fluid depress the pedal and tighten the valve before releasing the pedal. You know standard stuff - but no real reference to hold open the valve (forget what it's called - darn) while bleeding - other than power bleeding.

Anyway, did you try it yet? sorry for long.