1978 Ford F150 Brake Problem
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Freshman User
Joined: Dec 2008
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From: Casa Grande, AZ
1978 Ford F150 Brake Problem
Hi, I have been searching the net for a while for help with this problem. I stumbled upon this site and was hoping you could help.
I bought a 78 Ford f150 a few months ago. Long story short, the brakes don't really work. I am having trouble figuring out where to start fixing the problem. When backing the truck into the garage, I had to stand on the break pedal with all my weight to get it to stop from 5mph. I took the passenger front caliper off and when the brake is applied, the caliper piston doesn't move. On the other side, the wheel won't stop when spun. I lifted the rear, spun the tires and applied the brake. The wheels slowed down slightly with the brake applied. I have no idea where to start to fix this thing! Please help!!
Thanks!
I bought a 78 Ford f150 a few months ago. Long story short, the brakes don't really work. I am having trouble figuring out where to start fixing the problem. When backing the truck into the garage, I had to stand on the break pedal with all my weight to get it to stop from 5mph. I took the passenger front caliper off and when the brake is applied, the caliper piston doesn't move. On the other side, the wheel won't stop when spun. I lifted the rear, spun the tires and applied the brake. The wheels slowed down slightly with the brake applied. I have no idea where to start to fix this thing! Please help!!
Thanks!
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 785
From: Simi Valley, CA
If the caliper piston is frozen, you need to remove the piston, hone out the caliper and replace the caliper seals.
If the piston is pitted, it also should be replaced.
Both sides should be done at the same time.
A hard brake pedal is indicitive of a faulty brake booster.
Pump the brake pedal several times, then apply pressure to the pedal. Does the pedal slowly sink to the floor?
If so, you have a leak somewhere in the system.
It could be a caliper seal, wheel cylinder, front and/or rear brake hose, proportioning valve, or the master cylinder itself.
More than likely if the master cylinder is leaking brake fluid, the fluid is draining into the booster itself.
If the piston is pitted, it also should be replaced.
Both sides should be done at the same time.
A hard brake pedal is indicitive of a faulty brake booster.
Pump the brake pedal several times, then apply pressure to the pedal. Does the pedal slowly sink to the floor?
If so, you have a leak somewhere in the system.
It could be a caliper seal, wheel cylinder, front and/or rear brake hose, proportioning valve, or the master cylinder itself.
More than likely if the master cylinder is leaking brake fluid, the fluid is draining into the booster itself.
Thread Starter
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Freshman User
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 30
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From: Casa Grande, AZ
Thanks, I guess I'll try the brake booster. I just fear that this truck is going to nickle and dime me to death before I figure out the brake problem but I guess I have to start somewhere. I haven't noticed any break fluid leaking anywhere and the master cylinder is full.
Ford Parts Specialist
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 88,826
Likes: 785
From: Simi Valley, CA
Thanks, I guess I'll try the brake booster. I just fear that this truck is going to nickle and dime me to death before I figure out the brake problem but I guess I have to start somewhere. I haven't noticed any break fluid leaking anywhere and the master cylinder is full.
Welcome to FTE
If you aren't sure what the problem is, it's better to pay someone to diagnose it, instead of throwing money at it.
Replacing one part after another is a waste of time and money, and may not solve anything.
Post Fiend
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 11,912
Likes: 2
From: Greenville SC
Welcome to FTE, your post did'nt mention where you live, but here a brake shop will inspect them and tell you what you need.
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