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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
89 Volvo 740, Wild
Brakes
Q: I have an ‘89 740 Volvo. My problem is
that when I brake hard I lose control of the car. I had my mechanic check
the brakes and replace pads all the way around. At the same time he checked
the calipers and said they are okay. He bled the brake system too, no
luck !!!!!! The car still pulls left or right and fish tails. Now the
mechanic says to change the master cylinder!!!!....Majid
A:What would
you think if I were to tell you that your problem may not be brake related
at all? Volvos are known for their ride quality. To achieve this ride
quality requires the use of rubber bushings in the steering and suspension.
With age these bushings get tired and worn and when this happens the steering
and suspension can create strange handling problems. A problem that only
gets worse when the brakes are applied. If the steering and suspension
bushings are worn the alignment of the vehicle will change as the vehicle
is being driven. When the brakes are applied these worn bushings can cause
dramatic changes that make things get interesting fast. I would suggest
a closer inspection of the vehicle steering and suspension components
before guessing what braking component to replace next.
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