Now the brakes

[cgbier]

Got the coolant leak fixed and it runs lovely now. However, it doesn't stop.

Took it out for its first spin after the repair. When I stepped on the brakes, the pedal fell through to the firewall. I have a tiny bit of break power left over. Just enough to limp back home with it.

It leaks brake fluid while braking, and makes a hissing noise like a bicycle pump when I step the pedal. No sign of brake fluid leak anywhere.

My guess: master cylinder AND booster. What do you think?

Is there a way to bleed the master without the special tool (anti lock brake-equipped - it even works sometimes)? Our Ford shop can't find theirs anymore?

Got a well-maintained late 90's Cherokee for 500 bucks (ECM shot) in my sights...

 

[Number4]

Is there evidence of fluid I the ground?

Bleeding the master cylinder isn't an issue, it's the abs unit that is.

 

[cgbier]

Found the leak. It is the line from the rear left wheel to the differential.

But even though: Shouldn't I still get some vacuum on the booster?

 

[Number4]

When you press down, the fluid just spews out instead of applying hydraulic pressure. Keep the master cylinder full so air doesn't get into the ABS unit.

 

[cgbier]

Too late. That sucker ran empty when I limped home.

 

[Number4]

One way to bleed the abs, find a gravel road, brake hard so the abs engages, have a buddy jump out, bleed the brakes a bit and repeat.

 

[malohnes]

Another way to bleed the RABS unit is to tap it with a rubber mallet as the brakes are being pumped. That solved my spongy brakes after replacing MC and booster on my truck. Bleeding is a ***** and takes some time and patience.