[s-cars] Successful J-hose replacement, accumulator is next

[Thomas Rodriguez]

Hi Folks.  Several weeks ago I solicited advice/encouragement from all
of you listers about performing repairs and maintenance on my '95 S6
myself instead of always taking it to a mechanic.  Well, after 13
years of ownership and helping my mechanic put his kids through
college I finally took the plunge and did this job in my driveway to
fix a leaking J-hose (the hose that connects the power steering pump
to the pressure accumulator for the power brakes).

It took me about 20 minutes to remove the leaking J-hose. I wiped it
clean and mailed it to Spokane House of Hose which rebuilt it for $89
(compared to $450 for a new one).  It took me 20 minutes to install
the rebuilt hose, top up the hydraulic reservoir and bleed the system
by turning the unloaded steering rack lock-to-lock several times as
recommended by one of you in response to my recent post (thanks
Stott!).

The hydraulic leak is fixed but the brake pedal is still soft and
unpredictable as to how far it must be pressed to engage the brakes.
As such, I now plan to replace the pressure accumulator.  I can get a
Meyle unit from AutohausAZ for $273 and there's also a seal that costs
about $5. If that doesn't firm up the brake pedal I'll move along to
the booster and, if necessary, the master cylinder.  Any advice on
replacing the pressure accumulator would be appreciated.

I'll keep you all posted on the outcome.

Tom
'95 S6