Is it the "bomb" or master cylinder? 5000

[Mike Arman <armanmik@n-jcenter.com>]

>
>Date: Sat, 12 Jun 1999 10:31:03 -0000
>From: "Gregory Dillon" <gdillon@jps.net>
>Subject: Is it the "bomb" or master cylinder?  5000
>
>Over the last three weeks I've had symptoms of brake problems.  I believe I
>need to change either the Master Cylinder or the "bomb" (what a name).  But
>which?
>
>Here is what has happened.
>
>The Check Diagnositics graphics showed the picture of the "bomb."  


>>>>>>> That is the picture that shows up for a number of
brake/pentosin/booster related problems - it is general, not specific.



I added
>petrosin fluid, it was at the min mark and problem seemed to be corrected.


>>>>>>>>>> Correct first step. Note that pentosin isn't used in the brakes,
but only in the brake booster portion. You appear to have a small pentosin
leak somewhere (Imagine that!). Check the top hose from the PS pump to the
rack - if it is "slimy" or dripping, that's where it is.




>
>Twice in as many weeks when stuck in traffic jam type traffic for over 40
>minutes, -stop, shift, start, stop, swear . . .- my brakes have gone from
>stopping at the top of pedal travel to more that half way to the bottom.
>
>Second time, again in long traffic jam same thing.  Brakes only stopping
>near bottom of pedal.   I turned off the car checked fluids and
>temperatures.  Again the brakes fixed themselves somewhat and improved more
>as I drove home.  Back to normal the next morning.


Master cylinder.

Sounds like failing seals.

Fix PROMPTLY - you're getting a warning here that your brakes are about to
fail - pay heed!

>
>Yesterday, the "bomb" graphic showed for a second, and then turned itself
>off during the auto diagnostic startup functions.
>
>Should I change the bomb or the master cylinder?
>


Do the master first. That sounds like the problem here. Bad bomb has a
different set of complaints. Once you see the bomb, you'll know exactly why
it is called that: It looks like a "potato masher" grenade. (And has the
same effect on your wallet.)



>Greg Dillon


Best Regards,

Mike Arman