Brake Problem....your thoughts....SOLVED !!!
Looking for some input. The last few times we took the motorhome on a trip I seemed to notice the brake pedal had more and more movement. On our last trip the pedal felt like it was traveling clos...
Forum Discussion
I noticed your vehicle is almost 20 years old. I hope you have changed the brake fluid during that time.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air). Brake fluid is specifically designed to resist the high heats generated during heavy or repeated braking. When you add water to the mix, the boiling point of the fluid drops considerably. Water will vaporize under high heat and then the pedal will drop as the gas is compressed.
Remember, fluids are not compressible, but gasses are.
All manufacturers recommend purging and changing brake fluid
regularly. (please check your owners manuals, or go online) This also applies to hydraulic clutches, but isn't as dangerous
It is very possible it is just a master cylinder problem, but have the mechanic inspect all the brake calipers or cylinders if there is moisture related pitting in the master cylinder.
This is one area I don't recommend you do yourself unless you have extensive experience as a mechanic. (I do)
Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air). Brake fluid is specifically designed to resist the high heats generated during heavy or repeated braking. When you add water to the mix, the boiling point of the fluid drops considerably. Water will vaporize under high heat and then the pedal will drop as the gas is compressed.
Remember, fluids are not compressible, but gasses are.
All manufacturers recommend purging and changing brake fluid
regularly. (please check your owners manuals, or go online) This also applies to hydraulic clutches, but isn't as dangerous
It is very possible it is just a master cylinder problem, but have the mechanic inspect all the brake calipers or cylinders if there is moisture related pitting in the master cylinder.
This is one area I don't recommend you do yourself unless you have extensive experience as a mechanic. (I do)
