1994 JEEP CHEROKEE brake light

MULTI-PORT FUEL INJECTION (MFI)ÐCOMPONENT DESCRIPTION/SYSTEM
OPERATION
INDEX
page page
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch RelayÐPCM Output.24
Air Conditioning (A/C) ControlsÐPCM Input.... 19
Auto Shut Down (ASD) RelayÐPCM Output.... 24
Automatic Shut Down (ASD) SenseÐPCM Input . 19
Battery VoltageÐPCM Input................ 19
Brake SwitchÐPCM Input.................. 20
Camshaft Position SensorÐPCM Input........ 20
Crankshaft Position SensorÐPCM Input....... 20
Data Link ConnectorÐPCM Input............ 20
Data Link ConnectorÐPCM Output........... 24
EMR LampÐPCM Output.................. 24
Engine Coolant Temperature SensorÐPCM Input . 21
Extended Idle SwitchÐPCM Input............ 21
Fuel InjectorsÐPCM Output................ 25
Fuel Pressure Regulator................... 30
Fuel Pump RelayÐPCM Output............. 25
Fuel Rail............................... 30
General Information....................... 17
Generator FieldÐPCM Output............... 25
Generator LampÐPCM Output.............. 25
Idle Air Control (IAC) MotorÐPCM Output...... 25
Ignition Circuit SenseÐPCM Input............ 21
Ignition CoilÐPCM Output.................. 26Intake Air Temperature SensorÐPCM Input.... 20
Malfunction Indicator LampÐPCM Output...... 26
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) SensorÐ
PCM Input............................ 21
Open Loop/Closed Loop Modes of Operation . . . 27
Overdrive/Override Switch.................. 22
Oxygen (O2S) SensorÐPCM Input........... 22
Park/Neutral SwitchÐPCM Input............. 22
Power Ground........................... 22
Power Steering Pressure SwitchÐPCM Input . . . 22
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)............ 18
Radiator Fan RelayÐPCM Output............ 26
SCI ReceiveÐPCM Input.................. 22
SCI TransmitÐPCM Output................. 26
Sensor ReturnÐPCM Input................. 23
Shift IndicatorÐPCM Output................ 26
Speed ControlÐPCM Input................. 23
Speed ControlÐPCM Output................ 27
TachometerÐPCM Output.................. 27
Throttle Body............................ 29
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)ÐPCM Input..... 23
Torque Converter Clutch RelayÐPCM Output . . . 27
Vehicle Speed SensorÐPCM Input........... 23
GENERAL INFORMATION
All 2.5L 4 cylinder and 4.0L 6 cylinder engines are
equipped with sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection
(MFI). The MFI system provides precise air/fuel ra-
tios for all driving conditions.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) operates
the fuel system. The PCM was formerly referred to
as the SBEC or engine controller. The PCM is a pre-
programmed, dual microprocessor digital computer.
It regulates ignition timing, air-fuel ratio, emission
control devices, charging system, speed control, air
conditioning compressor clutch engagement and idle
speed. The PCM can adapt its programming to meet
changing operating conditions.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Inputsrep-
resent the instantaneous engine operating conditions.
Air-fuel mixture and ignition timing calibrations for
various driving and atmospheric conditions are pre-
programmed into the PCM. The PCM monitors and
analyzes various inputs. It then computes engine fuel
and ignition timing requirements based on these in-
puts. Fuel delivery control and ignition timing will
then be adjusted accordingly.
Other inputs to the PCM are provided by the brake
light switch, air conditioning select switch and the
speed control switches. All inputs to the PCM are
converted into signals.
Electrically operated fuel injectors spray fuel in
precise metered amounts into the intake port directlyabove the intake valve. The injectors are fired in a
specific sequence by the PCM. The PCM maintains
an air/fuel ratio of 14.7 to 1 by constantly adjusting
injector pulse width. Injector pulse width is the
length of time that the injector opens and sprays fuel
into the chamber. The PCM adjusts injector pulse
width by opening and closing the ground path to the
injector.
Manifold absolute pressure (air density) and engine
rpm (speed) are the primary inputs that determine
fuel injector pulse width. The PCM also monitors
other inputs when adjusting air-fuel ratio.
Inputs That Effect Fuel Injector Pulse Width
²Exhaust gas oxygen content
²Engine coolant temperature
²Manifold absolute pressure (MAP)
²Engine speed
²Throttle position
²Battery voltage
²Air conditioning selection
²Transmission gear selection (automatic transmis-
sions only)
²Speed control
The powertrain control module (PCM) adjusts igni-
tion timing by controlling ignition coil operation. The
ignition coil receives battery voltage when the igni-
tion key is in the run or starter position. The PCM
provides a ground for the ignition coil. The coil dis-
JFUEL SYSTEM 14 - 17

energized). This is done to compensate for the re-
duced flow through injector caused by the lowered
voltage.
BRAKE SWITCHÐPCM INPUT
When the brake light switch is activated, the pow-
ertrain control module (PCM) receives an input indi-
cating that the brakes are being applied. After
receiving this input, the PCM maintains idle speed
to a scheduled rpm through control of the idle air
control (IAC) motor. The brake switch input is also
used to operate the speed control system.
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSORÐPCM INPUT
A sync signal is provided by the camshaft position
sensor located in the ignition distributor (Fig. 5). The
sync signal from this sensor works in conjunction
with the crankshaft position sensor to provide the
powertrain control module (PCM) with inputs. This
is done to establish and maintain correct injector fir-
ing order.
Refer to Camshaft Position Sensor in Group 8D, Ig-
nition System for more information.
DATA LINK CONNECTORÐPCM INPUT
The data link connector (diagnostic scan tool con-
nector) links the DRB scan tool with the powertrain
control module (PCM). The data link connector is lo-
cated in the engine compartment (Figs. 6 or 7). For
operation of the DRB scan tool, refer to the appropri-
ate Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures service man-
ual.
The data link connector uses two different pins on
the PCM. One is for Data Link Transmit and the
other is for Data Link Receive.
INTAKE AIR TEMPERATURE SENSORÐPCM INPUT
The intake manifold air temperature sensor is in-
stalled in the intake manifold with the sensor ele-
ment extending into the air stream (Figs. 8 or 9).
The sensor provides an input voltage to the power-
train control module (PCM) indicating intake mani-
fold air temperature. The input is used along with
inputs from other sensors to determine injector pulse
width. As the temperature of the air-fuel stream in
the manifold varies, the sensor resistance changes.
This results in a different input voltage to the PCM.
CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSORÐPCM INPUT
This sensor is a Hall Effect device that detects
notches in the flywheel (manual transmission), or
flexplate (automatic transmission).
This sensor is used to indicate to the powertrain
control module (PCM) that a spark and or fuel injec-
tion event is to be required. The output from this
sensor, in conjunction with the camshaft position
sensor signal, is used to differentiate between fuel in-
jection and spark events. It is also used to synchro-
nize the fuel injectors with their respective cylinders.
Fig. 5 Camshaft Position Sensor
Fig. 6 Data Link ConnectorÐYJ ModelsÐTypical
Fig. 7 Data Link ConnectorÐXJ ModelsÐTypical
14 - 20 FUEL SYSTEMJ

IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR TEST
Idle Air Control (IAC) Motor operation can be
tested using special exerciser tool number 7558 (Fig.
42).
CAUTION: Proper safety precautions must be taken
when testing the idle air control motor:
²Set the parking brake and block the drive wheels
²Route all tester cables away from the cooling fans,
drive belt, pulleys and exhaust components
²Provide proper ventilation while operating the en-
gine
²Always return the engine idle speed to normal be-
fore disconnecting the exerciser tool
(1) With the ignition OFF, disconnect the IAC mo-
tor wire connector at throttle body (Fig. 42).
(2) Plug the exerciser tool number 7558 harness
connector into the IAC motor.
(3) Connect the red clip of exerciser tool 7558 to
battery positive terminal. Connect the black clip tonegative battery terminal. The red light on the exer-
ciser tool will flash when the tool is properly con-
nected.
(4) Start engine.
When the switch on the tool is in the HIGH or
LOW position, the light on the tool will flash. This
indicates that voltage pulses are being sent to the
IAC stepper motor.
(5) Move the switch to the HIGH position. The en-
gine speed should increase. Move the switch to the
LOW position. The engine speed should decrease.
(a) If the engine speed changes while using the
exerciser tool, the IAC motor is functioning prop-
erly. Disconnect the exerciser tool and connect the
IAC motor wire connector to the stepper motor.
(b) If the engine speed does not change, turn the
ignition OFF and proceed to step (6). Do not discon-
nect exerciser tool from the IAC motor.
(6) Remove the IAC motor from the throttle body.
Do not remove IAC motor housing from throttle
body.
CAUTION: When checking IAC motor operation with
the motor removed from the throttle body, do not
extend the pintle (Fig. 43) more than 6.35 mm (.250
in). If the pintle is extended more than this amount,
it may separate from the IAC motor. The IAC motor
must be replaced if the pintle separates from the
motor.
(7) With the ignition OFF, cycle the exerciser tool
switch between the HIGH and LOW positions. Ob-
serve the pintle. The pintle should move in-and-out
of the motor.
(a) If the pintle does not move, replace the idle
air control motor. Start the engine and test the re-
placement motor operation as described in step (5).
(b) If the pintle operates properly, check the idle
air control motor bore in the throttle body bore for
blockage and clean as necessary. Reinstall the idle
air control motor and retest. If blockage is not
Fig. 41 Oxygen SensorÐTypical
Fig. 42 IAC Motor TestingÐTypical
Fig. 43 Idle Air Control (IAC) Motor Pintle
14 - 46 FUEL SYSTEMJ

BRAKES
CONTENTS
page page
ABS BRAKE DIAGNOSIS.................. 3
ABS COMPONENT SERVICE.............. 47
ABS SYSTEM OPERATION............... 39
ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM OPERATION.... 43
BRAKE BLEEDINGÐBRAKE FLUID AND
LEVELÐBRAKELINES AND HOSES....... 13
BRAKE PEDAL AND BRAKELIGHT SWITCH . . 65
DISC BRAKES.......................... 24DRUM BRAKES........................ 34
GENERAL INFORMATION.................. 1
PARKING BRAKES...................... 56
POWER BRAKE BOOSTER................ 22
SERVICE BRAKE DIAGNOSIS.............. 7
SPECIFICATIONS....................... 67
STANDARD MASTER CYLINDER........... 20
GENERAL INFORMATION
INDEX
page page
Antilock Brake System (ABS)................ 1
Brake Fluid/Lubricants/Cleaning Solvents........ 1
Brake Safety Precautions................... 2
Brake Warning Lights...................... 1
Brakelining Material........................ 1Hydraulic Components..................... 1
Jeep Body Code Letters.................... 2
Power Brakes............................ 1
Wheel Brake Components................... 1
WHEEL BRAKE COMPONENTS
Front disc and rear drum brakes are used on all
models. The disc brake components consist of single
piston calipers and ventilated rotors. The rear drum
brakes are dual shoe, units with cast brake drums.
The parking brake mechanism is lever and cable
operated. The cables are attached to actuating levers
mounted on the rear drum brake secondary shoes.
The parking brake mechanism is operated by a foot
pedal on YJ models and a hand lever on XJ models.
POWER BRAKES
Power brakes are standard on all models. A vac-
uum operated power booster is used for standard and
ABS brake applications.
HYDRAULIC COMPONENTS
A dual reservoir master cylinder is used for all
standard brake applications. A combination propor-
tioning valve/pressure differential switch is used. A
center feed style master cylinder is used for ABS
brake applications.
BRAKELINING MATERIAL
The factory installed brakelining on all models con-
sists of an organic base material combined with me-
tallic particles. The lining does not contain asbestos.
BRAKE WARNING LIGHTS
A red, brake warning light is used to alert the
driver if a pressure differential exists between the
front and rear hydraulic systems. The light also
alerts the driver when the parking brakes are ap-
plied. The light illuminates for a few seconds at start
up as part of a bulb check procedure.
An additional warning light is used on models with
antilock brakes. This light is amber in color and is
located in the same side of the instrument cluster as
the red warning light. The amber light illuminates
only when an ABS system fault occurs.
ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)
An antilock brake system (ABS) is available on
XJ/YJ models. The system is an electronically oper-
ated, all-wheel brake control system. The ABS sys-
tem is designed to retard wheel lockup during
periods of high wheel slip braking. Refer to the anti-
lock brake section for operation and service informa-
tion.
BRAKE FLUID/LUBRICANTS/CLEANING SOLVENTS
Recommended fluid for all Jeep vehicles is Mopar
DOT 3 brake fluid, or an equivalent meeting SAE
J1703 and DOT 3 standards.
JBRAKES 5 - 1

ABS BRAKE DIAGNOSIS
INDEX
page page
ABS Fault Diagnosis....................... 4
ABS System Wiring and Electrical Circuits...... 4
ABS Warning Light Display.................. 3
Brake Warning Light Display................. 4
Diagnosis Procedures...................... 3
ECU Diagnosis........................... 4
HCU Diagnosis........................... 4Loss of Sensor Input....................... 3
Operating Sound Levels.................... 3
Rear Speed Sensor Air Gap................. 3
Steering Response........................ 3
Vehicle Response in Antilock Mode............ 3
Wheel/Tire Size and Input Signals............. 3
DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURES
ABS diagnosis involves three basic steps. First is
observation of the warning light display. Second is a
visual examination for low fluid level, leaks, parking
brakes applied, or obvious damage to system compo-
nents or wires. The third step involves using the
DRB II scan tool to identify a faulty component.
The visual examination requires a check of reser-
voir fluid level and all system components. Things to
look for are leaks, loose connections, or obvious com-
ponent damage.
The final diagnosis step involves using the DRB II
scan tool to determine the specific circuit or compo-
nent at fault. The tester is connected to the ABS di-
agnostic connector in the passenger compartment.
The connector is at the driver side of the center con-
sole under the instrument panel. Refer to the DRB II
scan tool Manual for tester procedures. Also refer to
the ABS Fault Diagnosis charts at the end of this
section for additional diagnosis information.
Initial faults should be cleared and the vehicle road
tested to reset any faults that remain in the system.
Faults can be cleared with the DRB II scan tool.
REAR SPEED SENSOR AIR GAP
The front wheel sensors are fixed and cannot be ad-
justed. Only the rear sensor air gap is adjustable. Air
gap must be set with a brass feeler gauge.
Correct air gap is important to proper signal gen-
eration. An air gap that is too large may cause com-
plete loss of sensor input. Or, a gap that is too small
could produce a false input signal, or damaging con-
tact between the sensor and tone ring.
WHEEL/TIRE SIZE AND INPUT SIGNALS
Antilock system operation is dependant on accurate
signals from the wheel speed sensors. Ideally, the ve-
hicle wheels and tires should all be the same size
and type. However, the Jeep ABS system is designed
to function with a compact spare tire installed.
OPERATING SOUND LEVELS
The ABS pump and solenoid valves may produce
some sound as they cycle on and off. This is a normal
condition and should not be mistaken for faulty oper-
ation.
VEHICLE RESPONSE IN ANTILOCK MODE
During antilock braking, the HCU solenoid valves
cycle rapidly in response to ECU inputs.
The driver will experience a pulsing sensation
within the vehicle as the solenoids decrease, hold, or
increase pressure as needed. A pulsing brake pedal
will also be noted.
The pulsing sensation occurs as the solenoids cycle
during antilock mode braking. A slight pulse in the
brake pedal may also be noted during the dynamic
self check part of system initialization.
STEERING RESPONSE
A modest amount of steering input is required dur-
ing extremely high deceleration braking, or when
braking on differing traction surfaces. An example of
differing traction surfaces would be when the left
side wheels are on ice and the right side wheels are
on dry pavement.
LOSS OF SENSOR INPUT
Sensor malfunctions will most likely be due to
loose connections, damaged sensor wires, incorrect
rear sensor air gap, or a malfunctioning sensor. Ad-
ditional causes of sensor faults would be sensor and
tone ring misalignment or damage.
ABS WARNING LIGHT DISPLAY
ABS Light Illuminates At Startup
The amber ABS light illuminates at startup as
part of the system self check feature. The light illu-
minates for 2-3 seconds then goes off as part of the
normal self check routine.
ABS Light Remains On After Startup
An ABS system fault is indicated when the light
remains on after startup. Diagnosis with the DRB II
JBRAKES 5 - 3

scan tool will be necessary to determine which ABS
component has malfunctioned.
ABS Light Illuminates During Brake Stop
A system fault such as loss of speed sensor signal
or solenoid failure, will cause the amber warning
light to illuminate. The most effective procedure here
is to check for obvious damage first. Then check the
electronic components with the DRB II scan tool.
BRAKE WARNING LIGHT DISPLAY
The red brake warning light and the ABS light op-
erate independently. If the red light remains on after
startup or illuminates during a brake stop, refer to
the standard brake system diagnosis section. Either
the parking brakes are applied, or a wheel brake
malfunction has occurred.
ECU DIAGNOSIS
The ECU controls all phases of antilock system op-
eration. It also differentiates between normal and an-
tilock mode braking.
The ECU monitors and processes the signals gen-
erated from all of the system sensors at all times.
The ECU program includes a self check routine
that tests each of the system components. The self
check occurs during both phases of the initialization
program. A failure of the self check program will
cause the immediate illumination of the amber warn-
ing light. The light will also illuminate if a solenoid
or other system component fails during the dynamic
phase of initialization.
If a system malfunction should occur, do not imme-
diately replace the ECU. A blown system fuse, bad
chassis ground, or loss of feed voltage will each cause
a system malfunction similar to an ECU failure.
Never replace the ECU unless diagnosis with the
DRB II scan tool indicates this is necessary.
HCU DIAGNOSIS
The HCU pump and motor and solenoid valve body
are serviced only as an assembly. The HCU assembly
should not be replaced unless a fault has actually
been confirmed. Verify fault conditions with the DRB
II scan tool before proceeding with repair.
ABS SYSTEM WIRING AND ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS
Location of the ABS fuse (in the fuse panel) is
shown in Figure 1. The engine compartment harness
routing for the ABS components is shown in Figure 2.
ABS FAULT DIAGNOSIS
The fault diagnosis chart provides additional infor-
mation on potential ABS system faults. Use the
chart as a guide when diagnosing a system problem.
Fig. 1 ABS Fuse Location
5 - 4 BRAKESJ

SERVICE BRAKE DIAGNOSIS
INDEX
page page
Component Inspection...................... 8
Diagnosing Parking Brake Problems.......... 10
Diagnosing Service Brake Problems........... 8
Diagnosis Procedures...................... 7
General Information........................ 7Master Cylinder/Power Booster Test.......... 11
Power Booster Check Valve Test............ 11
Power Booster Vacuum Test................ 12
Preliminary Brake Check.................... 7
Road Testing............................ 7
GENERAL INFORMATION
The diagnosis information in this section covers
service brake components which include:
²disc brake calipers
²disc brakeshoes
²drum brake wheel cylinders
²drum brakeshoes and brake drums
²drum brake support plates
²parking brake mechanism
²master cylinder/combination valve
²vacuum power brake booster
²brake pedal and brakelight switch
²brake warning light
DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURES
Service brake diagnosis involves determining if a
problem is related to a mechanical, hydraulic or vac-
uum operated component. A preliminary brake
check, followed by road testing and component in-
spection are needed to determine a problem cause.
Road testing will either verify proper brake opera-
tion or confirm the existence of a problem. Compo-
nent inspection will, in most cases, identify the
actual part responsible for a problem.
The first diagnosis step is the preliminary brake
check. This involves inspecting fluid level, parking
brake action, wheel and tire condition, checking for
obvious leaks or component damage and testing
brake pedal response. A road test will confirm or
deny the existence of a problem. The final diagnosis
procedure involves road test analysis and a visual in-
spection of brake components.
PRELIMINARY BRAKE CHECK
(1) If amber antilock light is illuminated, refer to
Antilock Brake System Diagnosis. However, if red
warning light is illuminated, or if neither warning
light is illuminated, continue with diagnosis.
(2) Check condition of tires and wheels. Damaged
wheels and worn, damaged, or underinflated tires
can cause pull, shudder, tramp and a condition simi-
lar to grab.
(3) If complaint was based on noise when braking,
check suspension components. Jounce front and rearof vehicle and listen for noise that might be caused
by loose, worn, or damaged suspension or steering
components.
(4) Inspect brake fluid level:
(a) If vehicle has one-piece master cylinder, fluid
level should be to 6 mm (1/4 in.) of reservoir rim. If
vehicle two-piece, removable reservoir, correct level
is to top of indicator rings in reservoir.
(b) On models with ABS brakes, preferred level
is to MAX mark on reservoir. Acceptable level is
between MAX and MIN marks.
(c) Remember that fluid level in the front and
rear reservoir compartments will decrease in pro-
portion to normal lining wear. However, if fluid
level is abnormally low, look for leaks at calipers,
wheel cylinders, brakelines and master cylinder.
(5) Inspect brake fluid condition:
(a) Fluid should be reasonably clear and free of
foreign material.Note that brake fluid tends to
darken over time. This is normal and should
not be mistaken for contamination. If fluid is
clear of foreign material, it is OK.
(b) If fluid is highly discolored, or appears to con-
tain foreign material, drain out a sample with a
clean suction gun. Pour sample in a glass container
and note condition.
(c) If fluid separates into layers, obviously con-
tains oil, or a substance other than brake fluid,
system seals and cups will have to be replaced and
hydraulic system flushed.
(6) Check parking brake operation. Verify free
movement and full release of cables and foot pedal or
hand lever. Also note if vehicle was being operated
with parking brake partially applied.
(7) Check brake pedal operation. Verify that pedal
does not bind and has adequate free play. If pedal
lacks free play, check pedal and power booster for be-
ing loose or for bind condition. Do not road test until
condition is corrected.
(8) If components inspected look OK, road test the
vehicle.
ROAD TESTING
(1) If amber warning light is illuminated, problem
is with antilock system component. Refer to Antilock
Brake System Diagnosis.
JBRAKES 5 - 7

(2) If red warning light is illuminated, or if neither
warning light is illuminated, make several stops and
note pedal action and brake response.
(3) Check brake pedal response with transmission
in Neutral and engine running. Pedal should remain
firm under steady foot pressure. If pedal falls away,
problem is either in vacuum booster or master cylin-
der.
(4) During road test, make normal and firm brake
stops in 25-40 mph range. Note faulty brake opera-
tion such as pull, grab, drag, noise, fade, pedal pul-
sation, etc.
(5) Inspect suspect brake components and refer to
problem diagnosis information for causes of various
brake conditions.
COMPONENT INSPECTION
Fluid leak points and dragging brake units can
usually be located without removing any compo-
nents. The area around a leak point will be wet with
fluid. The components at a dragging brake unit
(wheel, tire, rotor) will be quite warm or hot to the
touch.
Other brake problem conditions will require compo-
nent removal for proper inspection. Raise the vehicle
and remove the necessary wheels for better visual ac-
cess.
During component inspection, pay particular atten-
tion to heavily rusted/corroded brake components
(e.g. rotors, caliper pistons, brake return/holddown
springs, support plates, etc.).
Heavy accumulations of rust may be covering se-
vere damage to a brake component. It is wise to re-
move surface rust in order to accurately determine
the depth of rust penetration and damage. Light sur-
face rust is fairly normal and not a major concern (as
long as it is removed). However, heavy rust buildup,
especially on high mileage vehicles may cover struc-
tural damage to such important components as
brakelines, rotors, support plates, and brake boosters.
Refer to the wheel brake service procedures in this
group for more information.
DIAGNOSING SERVICE BRAKE PROBLEMS
BRAKE WARNING LIGHT OPERATION
The red brake warning light will illuminate under
the following conditions:
²for 2-3 seconds at startup as part of normal bulb
check
²parking brakes applied
²low pedal caused by malfunction in front/rear
brake hydraulic circuit (differential switch valve ac-
tuated)
If the red light remains on after startup, first ver-
ify that the parking brakes are fully released. Then
check pedal action and fluid level. A red light indi-
cates that the valve in the differential pressureswitch has been actuated. If a problem is confirmed,
inspect the hydraulic system and wheel brake compo-
nents.
On models with ABS brakes, the amber warning
light only illuminates when an ABS component has
malfunctioned. The ABS light operates indepen-
dently of the red warning light. Refer to the antilock
brake section for more detailed diagnosis informa-
tion.
PEDAL FALLS AWAY
A brake pedal that falls away under steady foot
pressure is generally the result of a system leak. The
leak point could be at a brakeline, fitting, hose,
wheel cylinder, or caliper. Internal leakage in the
master cylinder caused by worn or damaged piston
cups, may also be the problem cause.
If leakage is severe, fluid will be evident at or
around the leaking component. However internal
leakage in the master cylinder will not be physically
evident. Refer to the cylinder test procedure in this
section.
LOW PEDAL
If a low pedal is experienced, pump the pedal sev-
eral times. If the pedal comes back up, worn lining
and worn rotors or drums are the most likely causes.
However, if the pedal remains low and/or the warn-
ing light illuminates, the problem is in the master
cylinder, wheel cylinders, or calipers.
A decrease in master cylinder fluid level may only
be the result of normal lining wear. Fluid level will
decrease as lining wear occurs. It is a result of the
outward movement of caliper and wheel cylinder pis-
tons to compensate for normal wear.
SPONGY PEDAL
A spongy pedal is most often caused by air in the
system. However, thin drums or substandard brake
lines and hoses will also cause a condition similar to
a spongy pedal. The proper course of action is to
bleed the system, or replace thin drums and suspect
quality brake lines and hoses.
HARD PEDAL OR HIGH PEDAL EFFORT
A hard pedal or high pedal effort may be due to
lining that is water soaked, contaminated, glazed, or
badly worn. The power booster or check valve could
also be faulty. Test the booster and valve as de-
scribed in this section.
BRAKE DRAG
Brake drag occurs when the lining is in constant
contact with the rotor or drum. Drag can occur at
one wheel, all wheels, fronts only, or rears only. It is
a product of incomplete brakeshoe release. Drag can
be minor or severe enough to overheat the linings,
rotors and drums.
5 - 8 BRAKESJ