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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
87
Plymouth Voyager, Front Brake Lock-up
Q:
This is in regards to an '87 Plymouth Voyager front brake problem. I have
changed the front brake calipers (both) and when you use the brake, it
will engage, stopping the vehicle with no problems but will not release.
This is only after driving for about 25 - 35 minutes and using the brakes.
The vehicle will lose power because of overheating due to the binding
brakes then shuts down. It will be ok to drive again as soon as the brakes
cool down and retracts to normal position. What could be the possible
cause of this problem? Thanks in advance...........Phil
A: The
problem with your brakes is that the brake fluid cannot return, get back
to the brake master cylinder when the brake pedal is released. The most
common cause for that type of condition is incorrect push rod adjustment
to the brake master cylinder. Whenever the brake pedal is applied and
then released, the pistons in the brake master cylinder must retract to
the full rest position. If these pistons do not retract completely they
will cover/block a passage in the brake master cylinder that allows the
brake fluid to return when the brake pedal is released. As the brakes
heat up, the brake fluid absorbs some of the heat and expands. If there
is no place for the brake fluid to go, pressure will build in the system
and the brakes will apply. This creates more heat and more fluid expansion.
The result, is smoking brakes and a vehicle that does not want to go.
Have your technician inspect the brake pedal push rod to the master cylinder
adjustment.
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