Brake problems

[cuda6pak]

I looked through the Powermaster tech troubleshooting page but didn't find my exact problem.

I've had my Buick for a few months now and have never had brake problems until a few weeks back. I noticed that it was leaking a bit somewhere on the brake cylinder so I decided to open the top and peak inside to see the fluid level. Now I just peaked in there and it looked good so I put the top back on. Next time I drove it a few stops away from my apartment I started losing power in my brakes. I would push on the brake but it was like it hit a "block" halfway down so it was just barely braking and I couldn't press further. I kept pressure on it and it eventually started going back down. I did this a few more times to "pump" it up hopefully. After that it was fine for the rest of the drive.

It's always like that now. I have to "pump" the brakes a few times to make sure it has good stopping power before I take off in it. It still has that "block" on it to where if I keep pressure on it it will eventually give way and go further down. I have to keep doing this before I take off. But once I leave the car never has braking issues after that, until I shut it off and let it sit a few days. The car usually sits for days at a time. I've always pulled the tops off other master cylinders and never had a problem, I guess these powermasters are little bit different.

So I know pulling the top off the master cylinder had to cause this because it was fine before? What can I do?

 

[zeus87gn]

Yep, the P/M's are another animal. There is a lot to them, but once you understand them they are easy.

From your description, it sounds like you have the symptoms of an accumulator ball dying a slow horrible death. They seem to be a common replacement part and easy to replace.

I highly recommend you stop driving your GN until you diagnose and repair you problem. Your P/M is telling you it needs attention, NOW. If you keep driving it, you will loose all braking power and end up with a custom hood ornament. Like a light pole or a Mustang.

Run some diagnostics. Here is a good start: Brake System

Keep that fluid in good shape!
HTH

 

[cuda6pak]

Thanks zeus, after reading that a new accumulator ball is about $60-$70, and that converting to vacuum booster brakes is only a tad more. I think I may go that route

 

[tzque]

I bought a GN 5 months ago and the first thing that went was my powermaster . Follow the advice you have been given do not drive your car until you find out what the problem is . Mine went and I had to drive all the way home with no brakes .
I switched to a vacuum system and I am not looking back . I bought mine from RED regal and had problems . He helped me out and helped me fix the problems I had . His advice and instructions are worth the kit price alone . he stood behind what he is selling . Buy the TTA block its 30 bucks but worth it ,.
I wanted to keep my car original but one ride with a powermaster failure was enough for me .

 

[zeus87gn]

Thanks zeus, after reading that a new accumulator ball is about $60-$70, and that converting to vacuum booster brakes is only a tad more. I think I may go that route

If you can get ahold of a new acc ball for $70, you better grab it! I haven't seen them cheaper than about $175 these days. Prices are climbing on P/M parts, but the unit as a whole works too good to me. They have to be properly maintained to last.

Post up if you need more help. Good luck!

 

[cuda6pak]

UPDATE:

Well apparently I fixed the brakes today. I depressurized the system and then took the cap off the MC. It looks like I had the rubber piece on backwards and even then some of it was pressed down and not making a tight seal.

I fixed that and then went for a 45 min drive and they are performing just as good as they were before. Chalk that one up to a first time GN owner

I still plan on switching to vacuum brakes, however it's not as urgent now.

 

[zeus87gn]

Cuda,

Good that you solved your problem, whatever it was.
Even so, keep a close eye on that P/M.
It is talking to you.

Zeus

 

[tzque]

You and I have a few things in common .We are both learning this car and had early brake problems . I just want to give you some advice . I thought I was confident I had my brake problem fixed as well .All of a sudden my brake pedal went to the floor . I was lucky I was waiting in the DMV line when it happened .The ride home was scary . Dont get to comfortable until you are sure the problem is gone .
I am not here to sell anyone of vacuum, rebuild your powermaster . . All I can say is that it took one failure for me to take that thing out of my car. You have already got the warning signs .
I agree with Zues87gn . Your powermaster is talking to you . Listen up