Archived Brake Problems Worse With Snow

[kevinb83]

Help, replaced my brake mastercylinder and still have the pedal that is fine when you start to stop but as you get to the point where you want to stop the pedal gets softer it feels like the ABS kicks on and you roll a little longer then the pedal gets harder and you stop. I think it is the front wheel speed sensors and of course there are none in the area! Can I pull the fuse for the ABS until the parts arrive. Thanks

 

[SMorneau]

You should be fine pulling the fuse, which is what you need to try. I have converted my truck to a hydro boost setup but I don't really know that much about how they work. Is your power steering acting up? Pulling the fuse will help narrow it down.

 

[kevinb83]

No problems with the power steering. Just the brake problems. I figured by pulling that fuse I am just running without the ABS brain working.

 

[Sticks]

I started going through the same problem last week. 76k on the OEM pads. Turns out that the inboard pads on the rear axle, while still just under 1/4" thick had de-laminated from the backing plate and were "floating".

Do a real close inspection of your calipers and brake pad/shoes on both axles. If you have drums on the rear it is going to suck, and you should probably buy some wheel seals, RTV silicone, and diff oil before you start. Make sure the pads are wearing evenly on each side of the caliper/slave cylinder, and about the same on each side of the axle.

Do a visual inspection of the brake lines to make sure you have no leaks (look for wetness around the drums if so equipped) and your fluid is up to level. Also look for any fluid leaks around the master cylinder mounting at the firewall and under the dash.

 

[kevinb83]

Hey I have drums in the back and as soon as I pulled the ABS fuse the problem quit but my ABS light is on and I do not have a speedometer. That is ok until I get the new speed sensors in.

 

[RLHannink]

Shouldn't need to pull the hubs in the rear, it has outboard drums. At least my 97 does. BTW, my ABS function was helped out greatly when I put the bigger rear brake cylinders in, but I couldn't explain exactly why, it just works better since. But I only have rear ABS. Good luck with the brake problems, sure makes you appreciate it when it's all fixed

 

[bmoeller]

I wouldn't be surprised if you still have air in the system somewhere.