2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Need help with intermittent brake problem...

[Devil Black Diesel]

All,



I have a strange problem occuring with my brakes on my '01. Sometimes when I'm slowing down for a stop light or traffic my brakes start working as they should and then suddenly they let go as if the calipers were only squeezing 50% of what they should be. I don't loose them completely but it's as if their shuddering a little and there's very little stopping power when this occurs. After I get it stopped, they will work fine for the next 10 stoplights, it's totally random.



It seems to happen when I'm slowing down on a rough surface and when I hit a big bump they seem to let go... . no fluid is leaking anywhere.



I took it in yesterday and the mechanic said my brake system is tied into my power steering pump. I know my steering pump is going bad so could this have anything to do with my brakes?



No ABS light either...



Any suggestions?



Thanks

 

[jkalchik]

If your 01 is like my 99, it's a hydroboost brake system. Instead of a vacuum booster, it relies on hydraulic pressure from the power steering pump.



So, yes, if your p/s pump is failing (by not making pressure,) you can lose your power brakes.

 

[Devil Black Diesel]

OK, thanks for that. Anyone have any suggestions for a rebuild kit for my power steering pump?

 

[B.G. Smith]

Sounds like the anti lock brake system to me, the 99 I had would do the same thing on rough road and or dirt. If so, it's probably normal. bg

 

[Devil Black Diesel]

I know how the ABS system works on rough road conditions but this is a little more extreme. I've almost rear-ended a couple people because I lose about 60-70% of my braking power when this happens.



I'm going to fix my power steering pump and see if that helps. If not, I'm back to the drawing board.



Thanks

 

[jkern]

me too

my 99 does the same thing, only it seems that i don't lose any "power" the pedal feels the same, it is just that the braking performance goes away and you have to stand on the pedal to get anymore... but the pedal pushes easy. i only have rear ABS on mine.



i have an 01 durango with 4-wheel ABS that does the same thing, but it is re-producable. if i slam on the brakes like a panic stop it will envoke the ABS and it will stop great, but if i just gradually apply pressure to the pedal harder and harder it will not envoke the ABS and it will not stop either... just like the truck. i tow 2 wave runners with the durango (about 2200 pounds) and i have ran thru many stop signs and lights because it won't stop... i haven't hit anybody yet, but it is a matter of time!