Soft Brake Pedal
#1
Instructor
Thread Starter
Soft Brake Pedal
Long time since I've posted, but thought I'd ask the group for a little help. I have a '91 GT with standard calipers. I've recently placed cross-drilled rotors on it, since the track I DE on is very hard on brakes, and I thought it would help overheat the brakes. The other modifications are a 33 bar rear brake bias and running Pagid Orange pads, as well as adding stainless steel brake lines. That being said, once the ss lines were placed...WOW...the pedal was firm and the distance was short. It was like hitting a brick wall with the pedal...but that feeling faded within a few weeks. I did my DE and the situation got worse at the track. We surmised that my 15 year old master cylinder's seals were giving way, since the ss lines allowed for increased pressure in the system. The new master cylinder is on, but there still seems to be a 'mushy' feeling in the pedal. I'm looking for a firm pedal...but am troubled along with my mechanic. Is is between the pedal and the master or between the master and the pads. I thought I'd poll you guys/gals to see if anyone else has had a similar problem. Sure the car will stop, but the pedal distance and firmness used to be much better...thoughts???
Thanks for your help,
Roland
'91 GT Met. Black/New cashmere and carpet thanks to Dave/Jeannie!!!
Thanks for your help,
Roland
'91 GT Met. Black/New cashmere and carpet thanks to Dave/Jeannie!!!
#2
Rennlist Member
Yes thats what I would do , change the master cylinder seals , most brake places can do athis at minimal cost , di this in my gt , & several applications of the brake pressure bleeder that I obtained from 928 international & your brake pedal will return to it firm best
JG
JG
#3
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Roland -
What kind of Brake Fluid did you use?
At the Frenzy - during John V's 'FLUIDS" presentatin - he spoke of a particular DOT # that should NOT be used - and could cause this!
What kind of Brake Fluid did you use?
At the Frenzy - during John V's 'FLUIDS" presentatin - he spoke of a particular DOT # that should NOT be used - and could cause this!
#4
Rennlist Member
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You should not use silicone brake fluid - it has a serious problem with air entrainment, which causes a soft pedal.
One simple test:
With the engine not running, press the brake pedal firmly and fully release about ten times.
Wait a few seconds, then press the pedal - it should be high and firm. If there is any softness, you have a hydraulic or mechanical problem.
Press the pedal again, and hold it down with moderate pressure while starting the engine. As the engine starts, the pedal should sink slightly, and get somewhat softer - this is the normal brake booster operation.
One simple test:
With the engine not running, press the brake pedal firmly and fully release about ten times.
Wait a few seconds, then press the pedal - it should be high and firm. If there is any softness, you have a hydraulic or mechanical problem.
Press the pedal again, and hold it down with moderate pressure while starting the engine. As the engine starts, the pedal should sink slightly, and get somewhat softer - this is the normal brake booster operation.