Brake System Vacuum Source Test
- Temperature, accessory load, and elevation level will affect vacuum.
- Vacuum readings will decrease by approximately 2.7 kPa (0.8 in Hg) for every 305 m (1000 ft) of elevation above sea level.
- Disconnect the vacuum hose from the vacuum brake booster check valve.
- Install a vacuum gauge to the vacuum hose.
- Start the engine and allow the engine to idle until normal operating temperatures are reached.
- With the vehicle in PARK, the engine idling, and the air conditioning (A/C) system OFF, check to see if the vacuum reading is within the specified normal vacuum range.
Specification
47 - 68 kPa (14 - 20 in Hg)
- Turn the ignition OFF.
- If the vacuum reading was within the specified normal range, proceed to step 10.
- If the vacuum reading was NOT within the specified normal range, inspect the vacuum hoses for the following conditions:
- Loose connection to the vacuum source.
- Collapse, deformation or contamination
- Cracks, cuts, or dry-rot
- If any of these conditions were found with the vacuum hoses, replace the hose, then repeat steps 2 - 4.
- If none of these conditions were found with the vacuum hoses, then there is an vacuum source problem, check the vacuum system.
- Remove the vacuum brake booster check valve from the booster.
- Install the check valve to the vacuum hose.
- Install the vacuum gauge to the check valve.
- Start the engine and allow the engine to idle in PARK with the A/C system OFF, until normal operating temperatures are reached.
- Turn the ignition OFF.
- Check to see if the vacuum reading is maintained within the specified normal vacuum range.
Specification
47 - 68 kPa (14 - 20 in Hg)
- If the vacuum reading is maintained within the specified normal range, proceed to step 18.
- If the vacuum reading is NOT maintained within the specified normal range, replace the brake booster check valve, then repeat steps 11 - 15.
- Inspect the brake booster check valve grommet for the following conditions:
- Loose connection to the vacuum brake booster
- Deformation or contamination
- Cracks, cuts, dry-rot
- If any of these conditions were found with the check valve grommet, replace the grommet.
NOTE: