2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Brakes and steering problem

[Houston Dually]

I have a 1997, 3500 extended cab, 4wd, auto, fully loaded, stock Cummins -- plenty of power for my needs. It’s a couple hundred miles shy of 100K right now.



The problem I’m having is with braking and steering. At very low speed, +/- 5 mph when I make a hard turn, such as in a parking lot or at a stop sign on a side street, if I put on the brakes, the pedal goes all the way to the floor. The steering also gets very stiff. The brakes will pump back up right away, but this occasionally creates a “pucker factor” situation.



At highway speed or normal street speed, everything works fine. It has been suggested that the master cylinder be replaced – and it was. Didn’t help matters. Also, another idea was that there was an air pocket in the brake lines that needed bled. Done that too when the master cylinder was installed.



My current mechanic is not a “parts changer” and does not subscribe to that method of “fixing” vehicles. Rather he prefers to find the real problem and solve it. We’re at a dead end right now, and we’re looking for valid suggestions. Also, I have cut all ties to my local Dodge dealer (with extreme prejudice) due to lousy treatment I received there last year. Names provided upon request…….



(Just as an FYI -- I’m also posting a question under “12 Valve Engine and transmission 94-98” on some shifting problems I’ve had in cold weather. )



I hope that the good members/Cummins owners of TDR can help me out here. Appreciate any of your comments.



Thanks,

“Houston Dually”

 

[braible]

i had the problem with my brake pedal going to the floor, but at faster speeds.

i had to change the rear ABS sensor in the rear axle.

that was 50,000 miles ago, and the brake pedal is still good, so far

 

[McCRam]

I would pull the fuse for the abs and see if it still has the same symptoms. If not you know where to start looking.

 

[smitty3500]

I had the same exact problem when I installed a new brake master booster. Install was not bad at all and only a few hours. I replaced my master booster b/c it was leaking inside the cab a tad.



After the install the same symptons occured. What corrected the problem for me was starting the truck and then full lock out sterring wheel turns twice in each direction. Turned off truck and checked PS Fluid level. It was quite low due to the master booster change. I added to the proper level with Valvoline Syn PS Fluid and then 2 full lock out turns to each side and a short trip around the block and the problem was solved. I could only hope the problem is so easily fixed for you. Good Luck.



-Stephen

 

[KWentling]

I believe the '97s have the hydraboost don't they? If so, I'd check the accumulator. The service manual for my '98 says to : (1) Start the engine, apply the brakes and turn the steering wheel from lock to lock. This will ensure the accumulator is charged. Turn off the engine and let the vehicle set for one hour. After one hour there should be at least two power assisted brake applications with the engine off. If the system does not retain a charge the booster must be replaced. (2) With the engine off depress the brake pedal several times to discharge the accumulator. Grasp the accumulator and see if it wobbels or turns. If it does the accumulator has lost a gas charge and the booster must be replaced.

Kim