2001 DODGE TOWN AND COUNTRY brake fluid

CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
EXCESSIVE PEDAL
TRAVEL (ONE FRONT
WHEEL LOCKS UP
DURING HARD
BRAKING)1. One of the two hydraulic circuits to
the front brakes is malfunctioning.1. Inspect system for leaks. Check
master cylinder for internal malfunction.
PEDAL PULSATES/
SURGES DURING
BRAKING1. Rear brake drum out of round or
disc brake rotor has excessive
thickness variation.1. Isolate condition as rear or front.
Reface or replace brake drums or
rotors as necessary.
PEDAL IS SPONGY 1. Air in brake lines. 1. Bleed brakes.
2. Power brake booster runout
(vacuum assist).2. Check booster vacuum hose and
engine tune for adequate vacuum
supply. Refer to power brake booster
diagnosis and testing.
PREMATURE REAR
WHEEL LOCKUP1. Contaminated brake shoe linings. 1. Inspect and clean, or replace shoes.
Repair source of contamination.
2. Inoperative proportioning valve
(non-ABS vehicles).2. Refer to proportioning valve
diagnosis and testing. Replace valve as
necessary.
3. Improper power brake booster
assist.3. Refer to power brake booster in the
diagnosis and testing section.
STOP/BRAKE LAMPS
S TAY O N1. Brake lamp switch out of
adjustment.1. Replace brake lamp switch.
2. Brake pedal binding. 2. Inspect and replace as necessary.
3. Obstruction in pedal linkage. 3. Remove obstruction.
4. Power Brake Booster not allowing
pedal to return completely.4. Replace power brake booster.
VEHICLE PULLS TO
RIGHT OR LEFT ON
BRAKING1. Frozen brake caliper piston. 1. Replace frozen piston or caliper.
Bleed brakes.
2. Contaminated brake shoe lining. 2. Inspect and clean, or replace shoes.
Repair source of contamination.
3. Pinched brake lines. 3. Replace pinched line.
4. Leaking piston seal. 4. Replace piston seal or brake caliper.
5. Suspension problem. 5. Refer to the Suspension group.
PARKING BRAKE -
EXCESSIVE HANDLE
TRAVEL1. Rear drum brakes or rear disc
brake parking brake shoes out of
adjustment.1. Adjust rear drum brake shoes, or
rear parking brake shoes on vehicles
with rear disc brakes.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - BASE BRAKE
BLEEDING
NOTE: This bleeding procedure is only for the vehi-
cle's base brakes hydraulic system. For bleeding
the antilock brakes hydraulic system, (Refer to 5 -
BRAKES - ABS - STANDARD PROCEDURE)CAUTION: Before removing the master cylinder
cover, thoroughly clean the cover and master cylin-
der fluid reservoir to prevent dirt and other foreign
matter from dropping into the master cylinder fluid
reservoir.
5 - 6 BRAKES - BASERS
BRAKES - BASE (Continued)
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NOTE: The following wheel sequence should be
used when bleeding the brake hydraulic system.
The use of this wheel sequence will ensure ade-
quate removal of all trapped air from the brake
hydraulic system.
²Left Rear Wheel
²Right Front Wheel
²Right Rear Wheel
²Left Front Wheel
NOTE: When bleeding the brake system, some air
may be trapped in the brake lines or valves far
upstream, as much as ten feet from the bleeder
screw (Fig. 2). Therefore, it is essential to have a
fast flow of a large volume of brake fluid when
bleeding the brakes to ensure all the air gets out.
The brakes may be manually bled or pressure bled.
Refer to the appropriate following procedure.
MANUAL BLEEDING PROCEDURE
NOTE: Correct manual bleeding of the brakes
hydraulic system will require the aid of a helper.
NOTE: To adequately bleed the brakes using the
manual bleeding procedure the rear brakes must be
correctly adjusted. Prior to the manual bleeding of
the brake hydraulic system, correctly adjust the
rear brakes.
(1) Pump the brake pedal three or four times and
hold it down before the bleeder screw is opened.
(2) Push the brake pedal toward the floor and hold
it down. Then open the left rear bleeder screw at
least 1 full turn. When the bleeder screw opens the
brake pedal will drop all the way to the floor.CAUTION: ªJust crackingº the bleeder screw often
restricts fluid flow, allowing only a slow, weak fluid
discharge of fluid. This practice will NOT get all the
air out. Make sure the bleeder is opened at least 1
full turn when bleeding.
(3) Release the brake pedal onlyafterthe bleeder
screw is closed.
(4) Repeat steps 1 through 3, four or five times, at
each bleeder screw in the proper sequence. This
should pass a sufficient amount of fluid to expel all
the trapped air from the brake system. Be sure to
monitor the fluid level in the master cylinder, so it
stays at a proper level so air will not enter the brake
system through the master cylinder.
(5) Check pedal travel. If pedal travel is excessive
or has not been improved, enough fluid has not
passed through the system to expel all the trapped
air. Continue to bleed system as necessary.
(6) Perform a final adjustment of the rear brake
shoes (when applicable), then test drive vehicle to be
sure brakes are operating correctly and that pedal is
solid.
PRESSURE BLEEDING PROCEDURE
CAUTION: Use bleeder tank Special Tool C-3496-B
or equivalent with Adapter, Special Tool 6921, to
pressurize the hydraulic system for bleeding.
Follow pressure bleeder manufacturer's instruc-
tions for use of pressure bleeding equipment.
(1) Install the Adapter Master Cylinder Pressure
Bleed Cap, Special Tool 6921 on the fluid reservoir of
the master cylinder (Fig. 3). Attach the fluid hose
from the pressure bleeder to the fitting on Special
Tool 6921.
(2) Attach a clear plastic hose to the bleeder screw
at one wheel and feed the hose into a clear jar con-
taining fresh brake fluid.
(3) Open the left rear wheel bleeder screw at least
one full turnor more to obtain an adequate flow of
brake fluid.
CAUTION: ªJust crackingº the bleeder screw often
restricts fluid flow, allowing only a slow, weak fluid
discharge of fluid. This practice will NOT get all the
air out. Make sure the bleeder is opened at least 1
full turn when bleeding.
(4) After 4 to 8 ounces of brake fluid has been bled
through the hydraulic system, and an air-free flow is
maintained in the hose and jar, this will indicate a
good bleed of the hydraulic system has been
obtained.
(5) Repeat the procedure at all the other remain-
ing bleeder screws.
Fig. 2 Trapped Air In Brake Fluid Line
1 - TRAPPED AIR
RSBRAKES - BASE5-7
BRAKES - BASE (Continued)
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(6) Check pedal travel. If pedal travel is excessive
or has not been improved, enough fluid has not
passed through the system to expel all the trapped
air. Be sure to monitor the fluid level in the pressure
bleeder, so it stays at a proper level so air will not
enter the brake system through the master cylinder.
(7) Perform a final adjustment of the rear brake
shoes (when applicable), then test drive vehicle to be
sure brakes are operating correctly and that pedal is
solid.
SPECIFICATIONS
BRAKE FASTENER TORQUE
DESCRIPTION N´mFt.
Lbs.In.
Lbs.
ABS ICU Mounting Bolts To
Bracket11 Ð 9 7
ABS ICU Mounting
Bracket-To-Cradle Bolts28 21 250
ABS CAB-To-HCU Mounting
Screws2Ð17
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
Mounting Bolt12 Ð 105
Brake Tube Nuts 17 Ð 145
Brake Hose Intermediate
Bracket Bolt12 Ð 105
Brake Hose-To-Caliper
Mounting Bolt47 35 Ð
DESCRIPTION N´mFt.
Lbs.In.
Lbs.
Disc Brake Caliper Guide
Pin Bolts35 26 Ð
Disc Brake Caliper Bleeder
Screw15 Ð 125
Drum Brake Wheel Cylinder
Mounting Bolts8Ð75
Drum Brake Wheel Cylinder
Mounting Bleeder screw10 Ð 80
Drum Brake Support Plate
Mounting Bolts130 95 Ð
Junction Block (Non-ABS
Brakes) Mounting Bolts28 21 250
Master Cylinder Mounting
Nuts25 19 225
Power Brake Booster
Mounting Nuts28 21 250
Proportioning Valve
Mounting Bolts54 40 Ð
Proportioning Valve Axle
Bracket Mounting Bolt20 Ð 175
Parking Brake Lever (Pedal)
Mounting Bolts And Nut28 21 250
Wheel Mounting (Lug) Nuts 135 100 Ð
SPECIAL TOOLS
BASE BRAKE SYSTEM
Fig. 3 TOOL 6921 INSTALLED ON MASTER
CYLINDER
1 - SPECIAL TOOL 6921
2 - FLUID RESERVOIR
Tubes, Master Cylinder Bleeding 6920
5 - 8 BRAKES - BASERS
BRAKES - BASE (Continued)
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BRAKE FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The brake fluid level switch is located in the brake
fluid reservoir of the master cylinder (Fig. 4).
OPERATION
The purpose of the brake fluid level switch is to
provide the driver with an early warning that the
brake fluid level in the master cylinder fluid reser-
voir has dropped below a normal level. This may
indicate:
²Abnormal loss of brake fluid in the master cyl-
inder fluid reservoir resulting from a leak in the
hydraulic system.
²Brake shoe linings which have worn to a point
requiring replacement.
As the brake fluid drops below the minimum level,
the brake fluid level switch closes to complete the red
BRAKE warning indicator (lamp) circuit. This will
turn on the red BRAKE warning indicator. The mas-
ter cylinder fluid reservoir should be checked and
refilled to the Full mark with DOT 3 brake fluid.If
the brake fluid level has dropped below the add
line in the master cylinder fluid reservoir, the
entire brake hydraulic system should be
checked for evidence of a leak.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove wiring harness connector from brake
fluid reservoir level switch (Fig. 4).
(2) Using fingers, compress the retaining tabs on
the opposite end of brake fluid level switch.
(3) With retaining tabs compressed, grasp the con-
nector end of brake fluid level switch and pull it out
of master cylinder brake fluid reservoir.
INSTALLATION
(1) Insert brake fluid level switch into left side of
brake fluid reservoir. Be sure switch is pushed in
until retaining tabs lock it to brake fluid reservoir.
(2) Connect vehicle wiring harness connector to
brake fluid level switch (Fig. 4).
Tubes, Master Cylinder Bleed 8358
Adapter, Master Cylinder Pressure Bleed Cap 6921
Dial Indicator, C-3339
Gauge, Brake Safe-Set
Handle, Universal C±4171
Installer, Dust Boot C-4689 or C-4842
RSBRAKES - BASE5-9
BRAKES - BASE (Continued)
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HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL
DESCRIPTION - DISC BRAKES (FRONT)
Each front disc brake consists of the following com-
ponents:
²Brake Rotor
²Brake Caliper
²Brake Caliper Adapter
²Shoes (Pads)
There are two non-interchangeable front disc brake
systems depending on whether the vehicle is
equipped with rear drum or rear disc brakes. Vehi-
cles with the front disc/rear drum brake combination
utilize a system manufactured by TRW. Vehicles with
front disc/rear disc brakes utilize a system manufac-
tured by Continental Teves.
CAUTION: Components used on the disc/drum
combination brakes are not interchangeable with
the disc/disc combination brakes. The two different
systems must not be mixed. Improper performance,
noise and increased stopping distance can occur.
The TRW front brake caliper is a one piece casting
containing a single 64 mm diameter piston bore (Fig.
5) with a phenolic piston. The caliper mounts to a
caliper adapter using two guide pin bolts that thread
into guide pins slid into the caliper adapter (Fig. 6).
The pins are lubricated and have boots that seal
them in place in the adapter.
The Continental Teves front brake caliper is a one
piece casting containing a single piston 66 mm diam-eter bore (Fig. 5) with a phenolic piston. The caliper
mounts to a caliper adapter using two guide pin bolts
that thread into the caliper adapter and slide on
bushings mounted in the caliper.
CAUTION: TRW and Continental Teves calipers are
not interchangeable. Each caliper is specifically
designed for the unique brake system. If calipers
are interchanged, improper performance, noise and
increased stopping distance can occur.
Fig. 4 MASTER CYLINDER AND BOOSTER
1 - POWER BRAKE BOOSTER
2 - BOOSTER IDENTIFICATION LABEL
3 - FLUID LEVEL SWITCH CONNECTOR
4 - PRIMARY BRAKE TUBE NUT
5 - SECONDARY BRAKE TUBE NUT
6 - MASTER CYLINDER
Fig. 5 FRONT DISC BRAKE CALIPERS
1 - CONTINENTAL TEVES CALIPER (66 mm bore)
2 - TRW CALIPER (64 mm bore)
3 - GUIDE PIN BOLT
4 - GUIDE PIN AND BOOT
5 - CALIPER ADAPTER
6 - GUIDE PIN BOLT
7 - GUIDE PIN BUSHING
8 - CALIPER ADAPTER
Fig. 6 Guide Pins And Boots
1 - PINS
2 - BOOTS
5 - 10 BRAKES - BASERS
BRAKE FLUID LEVEL SWITCH (Continued)
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The outboard rear disc brake shoes (pads) are side-
oriented. The shoes are marked indicating which side
they belong on.
DESCRIPTION - DRUM BRAKES (REAR)
This vehicle's rear wheel drum brakes are a two-
shoe, internal-expanding type with an automatic
adjuster screw. The automatic adjuster screw is
located directly below the wheel cylinder that is
mounted near the top of the brake assembly (Fig.
10). These and two brake shoes (and attaching parts)
are mounted to a support plate at each rear wheel. A
brake drum covers each brake assembly.
OPERATION - DISC BRAKES (FRONT)
When the brakes are applied, fluid pressure is sent
to each brake caliper. The pressure at the caliper is
exerted equally against the caliper piston. The pres-
sure applied to the piston is transmitted directly to
the inboard brake shoe. This forces the shoe lining
against the inner surface of the brake rotor. At the
same time, fluid pressure within the caliper piston
bore forces the caliper to slide inward on its guide
pins. This action brings the outboard shoe lining into
contact with the outer surface of the brake rotor.
This pressure on both sides of the brake rotor causes
friction, bringing the vehicle to a stop.
When the brake pedal is released, so is the fluid
pressure. The piston seal inside the caliper is
designed to pull the piston back into the bore of the
caliper when the brake pedal is released (Fig. 11).
This action helps maintain the proper brake shoe-to-
rotor clearance.As disc brake shoe linings wear, master cylinder
reservoir brake fluid level will drop. Adjust as neces-
sary. Fluid level should always be checked after
replacing shoes.
OPERATION - DISC BRAKES (REAR)
The rear disc brakes operate similarly to front disc
brakes, however, there are some features that require
different service procedures.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - DRUM BRAKE
AUTOMATIC ADJUSTER
The rear drum brakes on this vehicle automatically
adjust when required during the normal operation of
the vehicle every time the brakes are applied. Use
the following procedure to test the operation of the
automatic adjuster.
Place the vehicle on a hoist with a helper in the
driver's seat to apply the brakes. Remove the access
plug from the adjustment hole in each brake support
plate to provide visual access of the brake adjuster
star wheel.
To eliminate the condition where maximum adjust-
ment of the rear brake shoes does not allow the auto-
matic adjuster to operate when tested, back the star
wheel off approximately 30 notches. It will be neces-
sary to hold the adjuster lever away from the star
wheel to permit this adjustment.
Have the helper apply the brakes. Upon applica-
tion of the brake pedal, the adjuster lever should
move down, turning the adjuster star wheel. Thus, a
definite rotation of the adjuster star wheel can be
Fig. 10 Drum Brake Assembly (Right Shown)
1 - WHEEL CYLINDER
2 - BRAKE SHOE UPPER RETURN SPRING
3 - AUTOMATIC ADJUSTER LEVER
4 - TENSION CLIP
5 - AUTOMATIC ADJUSTER ASSEMBLY
Fig. 11 Caliper Piston Seal Function For Automatic
Adjustment
1 - PISTON
2 - CYLINDER BORE
3 - PISTON SEAL BRAKE PRESSURE OFF
4 - CALIPER HOUSING
5 - DUST BOOT
6 - PISTON SEAL BRAKE PRESSURE ON
5 - 12 BRAKES - BASERS
HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL (Continued)
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observed if the automatic adjuster is working prop-
erly. If one or more adjusters do not function prop-
erly, the respective drum must be removed for
adjuster servicing.
BRAKE LINES
DESCRIPTION - BRAKE TUBES AND HOSES
The brake tubes are steel with a corrosion-resis-
tant nylon coating applied to the external surfaces.
The flex hoses are made of reinforced rubber with fit-
tings at each end.
The primary and secondary brake tubes leading
from the master cylinder to the ABS ICU Hydraulic
Control Unit (HCU) or the non-ABS junction block
have a special flexible section. This flexible section is
required due to cradle movement while the vehicle is
in motion (The ICU and non-ABS junction block are
mounted to the cradle).If replacement of these
lines is necessary, only the original factory
brake line containing the flexible section must
be used.
OPERATION - BRAKE TUBES AND HOSES
The purpose of the chassis brake tubes and flex
hoses is to transfer the pressurized brake fluid devel-
oped by the master cylinder to the wheel brakes of
the vehicle. The flex hoses are made of rubber to
allow for the movement of the vehicle's suspension.
INSPECTION - BRAKE TUBES AND HOSES
Flexible rubber hose is used at both front brakes
and at the rear axle. Inspection of brake hoses
should be performed whenever the brake system is
serviced and every 7,500 miles or 12 months, which-
ever comes first (every engine oil change). Inspect
hydraulic brake hoses for surface cracking, scuffing,
or worn spots. If the fabric casing of the rubber hose
becomes exposed due to cracks or abrasions in the
rubber hose cover, the hose should be replaced imme-
diately. Eventual deterioration of the hose can take
place with possible burst failure. Faulty installation
can cause twisting, resulting in wheel, tire, or chassis
interference.
The brake tubing should be inspected periodically
for evidence of physical damage or contact with mov-
ing or hot components.
The flexible brake tube sections used on this vehi-
cle in the primary and secondary tubes from the
master cylinder to the ABS hydraulic control unit
connections must also be inspected. This flexible tub-
ing must be inspected for kinks, fraying and contact
with other components or with the body of the vehi-
cle.
BRAKE PADS/SHOES - FRONT
REMOVAL - FRONT DISC BRAKE SHOES
(DISC/DISC BRAKES)
(1) Raise the vehicle. (Refer to LUBRICATION &
MAINTENANCE/HOISTING - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE).
(2) Remove both front wheel and tire assemblies.
(3) Begin on one side of the vehicle.
(4) Remove the anti-rattle clip from the outboard
side of the caliper and adapter.
(5) Remove the two caliper guide pin bolts.
(6) Remove caliper from caliper adapter and brake
rotor.
CAUTION: Supporting weight of caliper by the flex-
ible brake fluid hose can damage the hose.
(7) Using wire or cord, hang the caliper from the
front strut assembly (Fig. 12). Support the caliper
firmly to prevent weight of caliper from being sup-
ported by the brake fluid hose.
(8) Remove the outboard brake shoe from the cali-
per adapter.
(9) Pull the inboard brake shoe away from the cal-
iper piston until the retaining clip on shoe is free
from the cavity in the caliper piston (Fig. 13).
(10) Repeat the above procedure on other side of
the vehicle.
Fig. 12 Stored Front Disc Brake Caliper
1 - STEERING KNUCKLE
2 - BRAKE FLEX HOSE
3 - CALIPER ASSEMBLY
4 - WIRE HANGER
5 - STRUT ASSEMBLY
RSBRAKES - BASE5-13
HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL (Continued)
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shoes on the opposite side of the vehicle as well as
the shoes failing inspection.
If the brake shoe assemblies do not require
replacement, be sure to reinstall the brake shoes in
the original position they were remove from.
INSTALLATION - FRONT DISC BRAKE SHOES
(DISC/DISC BRAKES)
(1) Begin on one side of the vehicle or the other.
(2) Completely retract the caliper piston back into
its bore in the brake caliper (This is required for cal-
iper installation on the brake rotor with new brake
shoes installed).
(3) If applied, remove the protective paper from
the noise suppression gasket on the rear of both the
inner and outer brake shoe assemblies.
(4) Install the new inboard brake shoe into the cal-
iper piston by firmly pressing its retaining clip into
the piston bore. Be sure the inboard brake shoe is
positioned squarely against the face of the caliper
piston.
(5) Lubricate both adapter abutments where the
shoes slide with a small amount of MopartMultipur-
pose Lubricant, or equivalent.
(6) Slide the new outboard brake shoe into the cal-
iper adapter up against the outside of the brake
rotor.
CAUTION: Use care when installing the caliper
assembly onto the steering knuckle, so the caliper
guide pin bushings do not get damaged by the
steering knuckle bosses.
(7) Carefully position the brake caliper over the
brake rotor and adapter.
(8) Install the caliper guide pin bolts and tighten
to a torque of 35 N´m (26 ft. lbs.).Extreme caution
should be taken not to cross thread the caliper
guide pin bolts.
(9) Install the anti-rattle clip on the outboard side
of the caliper. Start the clip into the holes on the cal-
iper, then stretch the clip legs past the abutments on
the caliper adapter.
(10) Install the wheel and tire assembly. Tighten
the wheel mounting nuts in proper sequence until all
nuts are torqued to half specification, then repeat the
tightening sequence to the full specified torque of 135
N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(11) Repeat the above procedure on other side of
the vehicle.
(12) Lower vehicle.
(13) Pump the brake pedal several times. This will
set the shoes to the brake rotor.
(14) Check and adjust brake fluid level as neces-
sary.(15) Road test the vehicle and make several stops
to wear off any foreign material on the brakes and to
seat the brake shoes.
INSTALLATION - FRONT DISC BRAKE SHOES
(DISC/DRUM BRAKES)
NOTE: Perform steps Step 1 through Step 5on each
side of the vehicle.
(1) Place the brake shoes in the adapter anti-rattle
clips.
(2) Completely retract the caliper piston back into
the bore of the caliper.
CAUTION: Use care when installing the caliper onto
the disc brake adapter to avoid damaging the boots
on the caliper guide pins.
(3) Install the disc brake caliper over the brake
shoes on the brake caliper adapter.
(4) Align the caliper guide pin bolt holes with the
guide pins. Install the caliper guide pin bolts and
tighten them to a torque of 35 N´m (26 ft. lbs.) (Fig.
14).
(5) Install the tire and wheel assembly. Tighten
the wheel mounting nuts to a torque of 135 N´m (100
ft. lbs.).
(6) Lower the vehicle.
(7) Pump the brake pedal several times. This will
set the shoes to the brake rotor.
(8) Check and adjust the brake fluid level as nec-
essary.
(9) Road test the vehicle and make several stops to
wear off any foreign material on the brakes and to
seat the brake shoes.
BRAKE PADS/SHOES - REAR
DISC
REMOVAL - REAR DISC BRAKE SHOES
(1) Raise vehicle on jackstands or centered on a
hoist. (Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/
HOISTING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(2) Remove rear wheel and tire assemblies from
vehicle.
(3) Remove the caliper to adapter guide pin bolts
(Fig. 15).
(4) Remove rear caliper from adapter using the fol-
lowing procedure. First rotate rear of caliper up from
the adapter. Then pull the front of the caliper and
the outboard brake shoe anti-rattle clip out from
under the front abutment on the adapter (Fig. 16).
RSBRAKES - BASE5-15
BRAKE PADS/SHOES - FRONT (Continued)
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