Handy with the breaks? Help!

[DR308]

Hi Guys: I am having a problem with my breaks. When I Coast up to a light or a stop sign slowly, The break pedal gets hard to push down, like my power breaks are gone. It won't happen if I get caught, and I have to stop quickly. I suspected the vacuum pump. I went to NAPA here and they said it would cost $486. 00 plus tax!!!! For a rebuilt one! :--) Could anyone tell me what to look for besides the vac pump? I am suffering from an ols Italian desease called "MYFUNDSALOW" Here I am trying to save some bucks again. Thanks ahead of time for any and all replys. ------DR308

 

[Greenleaf]

While there are other options to spending your money with a NAPA rebuild, you can check the pump yourself easy enough. I'd have to look @ the manual for specs befor I post anything.



Another contributing factor is the booster.



Yet another would be to check all your connections to ensure there is no leaky connections.



If memory serves, there is a brake light that will illuminate if you have low or no vacuum.



Scott

 

[ARedetzke]

Check your brake booster. If it is bad, the pedal gets that no power assist feel as the vacuum leaks out (pedal sinks a little and gets hard). Then the "brake" light by the "wait to start" light will come on. At least that is what mine did.

AJ

 

[Greenleaf]

Dude,



I'm looking in my Dodge FSM and found more info than I care to know. You could try sending me a PM and I'll give you my phone # and could read to you the highlights I think you'll need to know such as:



Power Booster Test

Diesel Vacuum Pump Test

Booster Check Valve Test

Brake Warning Lamp Operation

Hard Pedal Symtoms

Etc. Etc. Etc.



Scott

 

[DR308]

Thanks guy's

Yes, the break light and the ABS light comes on when this happens. I forgot to mention that little fact. Sorry. I will check connections and the booster tommorow. If I find anything, I will let you know. Thank you for the offer to accept a call to give me info. I just may end up doing that. OK, I will be out of here for awhile. The little one are starting to come to the door to extort as much candy from me as possible. Some of the little buggers are really cute though. See ya. --------DR308