Brake Problem

[firstgenrook]

I have a '91 with ABS and the Anti-Lock idiot light is on. what causes this. and also, when i depress the pedal hard, the brakes dont stop me, they give a little, and a loud air release sound comes from down by the pedal. sounds like a vacuum or something. I ran it a little hard today, and when i parked it, the brakes were locked up, but after sitting, they were fine again....... please help!

 

[K-Dawg]

Check the fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir.

 

[firstgenrook]

fluid is at normal level and doesnt look too dirty.

 

[Shoaz]

Sounds like you might be having trouble with the vacuum brake booster.

 

[firstgenrook]

what is that, and how do i replace it??? thanks

 

[rangerj]

The brake "lock-up" could be caused by plugged pressure relief ports in the master cylinder, and/or rubber brake lines that are swollen on the inside and not allowing pressure relief.

Check your vacuum lines to the vacuum brake booster and make sure they are connected and not cracked or broken.

If you do not know what a power brake booster is, and how it functions, you should go to a library and read a service manual before attempting to do any repairs. If your brake petal is exceptionally hard to press it is a sign of a lack of vacuum to the brake booster.

Again, before you start replacing parts unnecessarily do some reading about the brake system and how to diagnose brake problems. rangerj

 

[firstgenrook]

thank you guys very much