Braking issue when cold

[KurtL]

So it finally got cold here and this is my first winter with my runner. Well the last couple mornings the first time I press on the brake pedal it is super stiff and barely moves and of course doesn't slow me down much. Scared the s**t out of me when a car started to pull out in front of me in my parking lot. Pumped it a couple times then it was back to working just fine. Is this the sign of an issue or is this normal for these rigs?

 

[Oconnor88]

Was -40 Celsius today, mine does it to. I usually pump it while parked, once it's moving I take off. Just frozen I assume.

 

[audiness]

when is the last time you changed our your brake fluid? you probably have really old non-synthetic fluid in there.

 

[LittleCaesar]

Replace the brake booster check valve that sits in the brake booster itself. You will see a vacuum hose that runs from it to the intake manifold.

Replace the grommet that holds the check valve as well.

Total parts price at the dealer should be no more than $40.

 

[Qyota]

^^ This.

 

[blonde1boarder]

So can you guys explain what is happening exactly? Mine does the same thing and I had assumed that there was moisture in my brake lines...

 

[Stallion Motors]

Replace the brake booster check valve that sits in the brake booster itself. You will see a vacuum hose that runs from it to the intake manifold.

Replace the grommet that holds the check valve as well.

Total parts price at the dealer should be no more than $40.

everything i have read points to this. i have heard it is a simple diy job too. pull the old one out, put the new one in.

tom

 

[Qyota]

Moisture in your brakelines? Yes, by nature, brake fluid is hydrophilic, so eventually the water content will reduce the boiling point of the fluid and make it less effective. It can also lead to corrosion in the lines.

But this problem is a faulty vacuum valve. They get sticky as they get old, and the super cold air makes them stick easier. It sticks shut, and doesn't allow the vacuum to help boost your brake power. So, it feels like "manual" brakes, which is basically what you have during this time.