Master Cylinder
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 1997 Ford Pickup, 1997 Ford F-Super Duty, 1997 Ford Cab & Chassis, 1996 Ford Pickup, and 1996 Ford F-Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Changes in brake pedal feel or travel signal something could be wrong in brake system. When diagnosing brake system problems, use brake warning light, pedal feel/travel and fluid level as indicators. Following symptoms indicate brake trouble:
Pedal goes down fast.
- Check for leaks or air in system.
Pedal goes down slowly.
- Check for external or internal leaks.
Pedal is low and/or feels spongy.
- Check for empty master cylinder reservoir, reservoir cap vent holes clogged, rear brakes out of adjustment or air in system.
Pedal effort too high.
- Check for binding or obstruction in pedal linkage. Check for poor booster assist.
Brake warning light is on.
- Check for low fluid level, ignition wires too close to fluid level indicator assembly, damaged indicator float, low vacuum (diesel) or applied parking brake.