Powermaster Question

[626gn]

Is it normal for the Brake Switch Connector and Motor Connector to have a little bit of brake fluid in them or are they supposed to be bone dry? Fluid isn’t leaking out of the connectors, its just a little wet on the inside. No fuses were blown and brake light is not on.
I did lose power assist a few days ago (light came on that time) and the motor stopped running for a little while. I unplugged the brake switch and motor connector and noticed a very small amount of brake fluid in them. I checked it with my meter. Everything checked out ok so I wiped the connections, plugged them back in and the motor started working again.
Now, when I turn the ignition on, after depressurizing the system, the Powermaster makes clicking sounds for a few seconds after it cycles the fluid in the bowl back into the Accumulator. The motor doesn’t continue to run, it just clicks a few times then stops. Brake light does not come on at any time during this process. Brake fluid is changed every 6 months to a year with the engine oil.
I’m thinking I definitely need a new Accumulator to fix the clicking problem but what about the fluid in the connectors? Am I possibly dealing with a separate problem with the Motor and/or Brake Switch?
Many will say to convert to Vacuum or Hydroboost and be done with it but I’d like to continue with the Powermaster unit if all I need is a new Accumulator. If the motor is on its way out then I’d consider converting.

 

[RobS]

Is it normal for the Brake Switch Connector and Motor Connector to have a little bit of brake fluid in them or are they supposed to be bone dry?

The connectors are suppose to be dry. Years ago my brake switch was leaking fluid from the switch. The dealer replaced the switch. I am guessing the leak will get worse.

I’m thinking I definitely need a new Accumulator

How many times can you press the brake pedal before the motor runs? Before I replaced my accumulator, the motor would run every time I pressed the brake pedal. After the accumulator was replaced , the motor would run every other time the brake pedal was pressed.

I am not sure about the clicking. Mine will click at the same time the motor stops running.

 

[BEATAV8]

time for a new switch and maybe an accumulator. the clicking is caused by the switch getting crappy. it can't decide whether it should run or stop.

preserve your O-rings, the new switches do not include the correct o-ring.

 

[626gn]

The connectors are suppose to be dry. Years ago my brake switch was leaking fluid from the switch. The dealer replaced the switch. I am guessing the leak will get worse.



How many times can you press the brake pedal before the motor runs? Before I replaced my accumulator, the motor would run every time I pressed the brake pedal. After the accumulator was replaced , the motor would run every other time the brake pedal was pressed.

I am not sure about the clicking. Mine will click at the same time the motor stops running.

The motor runs every time I press the brake. Accu bad for sure.

If the Brake Switch connector is supposed to be dry then I'm guessing the Motor connector is supposed to be dry too? If so, then I guess I'm looking at a complete overhaul?

 

[626gn]

time for a new switch and maybe an accumulator. the clicking is caused by the switch getting crappy. it can't decide whether it should run or stop.

preserve your O-rings, the new switches do not include the correct o-ring.

Thanks, I'll remember that.

 

[aminga]

What color is the switch. Black switches were subject to a recall for leaking. Recalled switches are gray

 

[626gn]

What color is the switch. Black switches were subject to a recall for leaking. Recalled switches are gray

Switch is gray

 

[RobS]

I cannot figure how the motor connector has brake fluid in it. The connector is on the front top of the motor and the fluid is in the rear. I wonder if a previous owner used brake fluid to prevent corrosion instead of white grease.

 

[626gn]

I cannot figure how the motor connector has brake fluid in it. The connector is on the front top of the motor and the fluid is in the rear. I wonder if a previous owner used brake fluid to prevent corrosion instead of white grease.

I read somewhere that the pump seals on the far end of the motor could have been compromised and the fluid has been drawn all the way through the pump housing. Not sure if this info is accurate or not and was looking for confirmation. It seems as if I may have more than one thing wrong with my PM. In which case I'll have to decide between rebuilding the entire PM or converting to vacuum or hydroboost. Thanks to all who contributed to this post.

 

[BEATAV8]

Yes the pump seal may have failed, which would allow brake fluid to leak into the inside of the motor. I would expect to see wet fluid along the bottom side of the motor if this had happened.

 

[626gn]

Yes the pump seal may have failed, which would allow brake fluid to leak into the inside of the motor. I would expect to see wet fluid along the bottom side of the motor if this had happened.

Bottom of the motor is dry...for now. I guess its just a matter of time before it gets worse.