Condition # 2

When changing brake pads or bleeding the brakes, there may be a problem getting pressure to the left front brake.

CAUSE:
The master cylinder return spring force may not be sufficient to return pistons when brake system is subjected to a vacuum.

Corrective Action Steps

NOTE:
Whenever possible, it is desirable to pressure bleed the brakes per Service Manual procedure.

Step # 1 - Low or no fluid pressure getting to front left brake.





A. If pressure bleeding is not possible, the problem may be resolved by loosening the left front master cylinder tube nut (Figure 3). Leave open until fluid starts to drip out and then tighten tube nut. It may be helpful to remove master cylinder reservoir cover and to lightly pull back on pedal to achieve full return of the master cylinder piston. It may take up to a minute before fluid gravity flows out of the port. Several applies and releases after the tube nut is tightened will help bleed out any air in the master cylinder.

B. If additional manual bleeding of front master cylinder circuit is necessary, try shorter applies (about 1/2 of full travel) to help master cylinder to compensate. It may be required to repeat step A above to achieve compensation.

C. The above action should allow proper bleeding of the master cylinder circuit. If this should fail, vehicles can be repaired with the Powermaster Repair Kit 18017614 (per corrective action for pedal return concern).

NOTE:
Proper bleeding of the Powermaster III is important to both pedal travel and pedal feel. Following Service Manual procedure is important to achieving good pedal feel. When manually (key on) bleeding the rear brakes, the accumulator must be pressurized.

NOTE:
Disregard Service Manual instructions to bleed brake system after replacing accumulator or pressure switch on the vehicle. It is not necessary to bleed the brake system when only the pressure switch or accumulator is replaced. Powermaster III unit must be depressurized before servicing.