Thread: 300 tdi Brake question

Originally Posted by Bazzle218

1996 300TDI ABS.

I have fitted new rotors and pads but have noticed an annoying problem. When I'm driving i have one good application of brakes and then they are crap. Peddle goes hard like there is no vacuum boost. Now I have read the good oil and other posts. If I let the peddle off for a bit and try again its fine for another application. In normal braking it should not be a problem but in the bush who knows. The one-way check valve works ok; I have pulled off and checked that the vacuum pump is drawing. Any thoughts or any hints What about fitted an aftermarket vacuum reservoir or am I dreaming. This problem was there before the rebuild so not sure if it’s a problem or just a Landover thing.

Just reading about your brake problem, I have the same thing, didi you ever fix the problem? and if so what was the cure. thanks.

First check that the booster itself is OK. There is a method of doing along the lines of start engine, turn off, and then you should get around 2-3 full applications of brake before it goes hard. Have a search as its been posted in detail before.

I'd also check for a collapsed vacuum hose from the pump. could be that its collapsing internally. If in doubt just replace it.

Steve

The likely culprit is the vac pump/ vac pump line to booster. The vac pump should suck at least 15 to 18 in/Hg at idle speed, with a smooth almost pulse free suction. The plastic line from the pump to the booster can rub through and cause leaks too. The boosters are quite reliable, usually suffering a second stage failure so not effective under hard braking but OK under normal braking. Booster could still be at fault though, so check as described earlier.

JC

my brakes are the same, new Vac pump is coming soon, mine is leaking like a seive.

Originally Posted by Bazzle218

1996 300TDI ABS.

I have fitted new rotors and pads but have noticed an annoying problem. When I'm driving i have one good application of brakes and then they are crap. Peddle goes hard like there is no vacuum boost. Now I have read the good oil and other posts. If I let the peddle off for a bit and try again its fine for another application. In normal braking it should not be a problem but in the bush who knows. The one-way check valve works ok; I have pulled off and checked that the vacuum pump is drawing. Any thoughts or any hints What about fitted an aftermarket vacuum reservoir or am I dreaming. This problem was there before the rebuild so not sure if it’s a problem or just a Landover thing.

Just replaced my vacuum pump, with exactly those symptoms. (Defender) Brakes were fine for the first application and then crap (hard as a rock). Vacuum pump was pulling vacuum, but only just.
I found it fine in the bush but very ordinary in traffic. Drove from the cape back home with it like that (via W Qld)


Martyn

Mate I've just had the same problem with my defender, Justin and blacknight said to check the booster for cracks where the master cylinder bolts on,

they were spot on, I even changed all the pistons, seals and rotors, they were all sad but still no brakes, waiting on the new booster, $260 from british 4wd in brisy.

cheers

scotty p