Originally Posted by
Jack G
Okay if the brake hoses have been replaced I would completely empty and refill the lines with new fluid. You probably have a considerable amount of air in the system. I recommend you not attempt to do this as it should be done by a quality auto repair shop and more than likely involve 2 people. You indicate the pedal goes almost to the floor then becomes solid. This to me indicates the presence of entrapped air in the line. You are compressing the air sufficiently to equal the hydraulic pressure needed to actuate the brakes.
.
Their is no need to be 2 people if an mityvac brake bleeder kit, or something similar, is used and it is a way better method than using the brake pedal to do so . . .
First,install car on lift or on 4 jack stand and remove weels. Open the master cylinder reservoir and note the oil level because at the end of the procedure you need to finish with that same level. Then, suck the old brake fluid almost to the bottom of the master cylinder reservoir, refill to top with new brake fluid, put cap on but do not completely screw the cap.
Caution . . . do not suck more brake fluid than the master cylinder reservoir contain at once or air will enter the system. Check level and reajust often.
.
Unscrew the Rear Right caliper's bleeder and put teflon tape on the bleeder's thread to prevent air bubble in the clear tube while you bleed.Reinstall and thighten bleeder,leave a closed end wrench on the bleeder and connect clear tube,Build vacuum and check the guage to see if their is no leak, The tip of the bleeder need to be free of dirt or rust in order to have a good seal with the tube. , If their is no vaccum lost you are ready to proceed . . . then, you open the bleeder slowly and keep your vacuum steady. Has soon you see the change in color of the brake fluid comming out in the clear tube you have the confirmation that this line is properly done .If their was any air at all in this line you should have seen it passing by in the clear tube. Repeat procedure with the Rear Left caliper followed by Front Right and finally the Front Left.
Adjust brake fluild level in master cylinder reservoir to the same level previously noted and thightly screw reservoir cap. Test brake pedal travel and you are done.
Daniel