Posted by muffled on January 14, 2008, at 11:24:13
In reply to Re: Total sudden brake failure, posted by Deneb on January 14, 2008, at 10:11:41
More likely a slow leak that got worse over time. When yu were eating it was leaking. When you got back, no fluid, no brakes. Could also be master cylinder which would explain the cost. Though even at that, I would expect new pads/linings etc for that much money....
Its quite possible you brake pedal HAS been softening more over time, and thats why your Dad was not so worried, cuz he'd kinda been getting used to it.
FYI, if your brakes fail, your parking brake still works, it is purely mechanical and activates the rear drums usu.
If you can hold the brake release lever 'out/disengage the ratchet'(depending on type of car/truck)then you can apply the emergency brake more smoothly. They will not stop you as quickly. Just don't STOMP on the parking brake cuz it will lock up, and lock your brakes too. Slow application can work too, even w/o disengaging the ratchet.
Sometimes pumping hydraulic brakes will bring them back enuf to stop as well.
M
poster:muffled
thread:806378
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20080104/msgs/806396.html