Brake Help

[Bernard Littau]

> I've ground to a halt with the dreaded "5KTQ front brakes siezing up after
> 10 mile drive" disease.

Hi Mark,

I can't see how the bomb can make the brakes hang.  Likewise, unless the
booster is in a bizarre failure mode (like, applying the brakes all the time
on its own... seems not possible), the brake booster should not be a factor.
I'd bet on the Master Cylinder being the problem if hardware is the cause.
I replaced mine for 100-150 dollars from TPC.  I also replaced my bomb for
around $150 from TPC. (these were about two years ago, YMMV).

Be warned that hanging brakes may not be a dysfunctional Master Cylinder --
it could be that the plunger that pushes on the Master Cylinder is not
adjusted correctly.  If the plunger is too long, it will not allow the vent
in the Master Cylinder to fully open to release the brakes.  You may want to
check the adjustment of the plunger into the Master Cylinder and bleed your
brakes to fully replace the brake fluid before you add new parts.  A
combination of water-logged brake fluid and a crudded up or not fully
opening vent are usually both necessary for hanging brakes.

> Gina '86 5KTQW  215K
> Max  '87 5KTQ   218K

Best,

Bernard Littau
Woodinville, WA
'88 5ktq 252K <== couldn't resist :-)