Strange brake problem, please advise, THX.

[Denet]

I always had mushy or soft brake feel with my 1996 4runner V6 limited Edition 4WD at low speed(1mph-45mph). Above 45mph, it brakes reasonably solid. After several month of testing and fixing. I finally narrow down to the following symptoms:

As long as I lift my hand brake first before I apply the pedal brake, it works fine, no mushy, no soft feel, it brakes solid. OR if I push on the brake pedal slowly first 1/2 way down, then brake, there is no mushy or soft feel.

I have replaced both rear cylinders, pads, springs so far and Bleed and bleed and bleed many times. I also replaced front with drill rotors and better pads.

Any advise welcome.

 

[SchooBaka]

It sounds like the rear brakes are worn out or adjusted too loose.

 

[Denet]

Thank you for your suggestion and I performed the adjustment at rear brake. I turn the star as far as I can without making too tight. It does feel better after the adjustment.

 

[SchooBaka]

No problem.
The key is to get the rear wheels off the ground, tighten the star wheel until the brakes start to drag, then back it off 4 or 5 clicks or screwdriver prys until the brakes no longer drag.
You need to make sure the brakes don't drag or they'll heat up and lock up the rear wheels.

 

[Denet]

My brake has improve a lot after performed your suggestion.

I read somewhere that some 4runners have a fifth bleed place. Is that true with 1996 4runner limited Edition V6 4WD also.

If it is, do you know where is it located?

Again, thank you for your help.

 

[SchooBaka]

There might be a bleed valve on the hieght compensator at the rear axle; mounted to the body at the end of a long rod about 1/4 inch thick running from the axle to the body. To be honest, i've never had to bleed air from that point.
I could see getting air in there if the master cylinder went dry though.

 

[Denet]

Master Cylinder bleed

Can I bleed master cylinder myself or it requires special tool?



Thanks,

 

[SchooBaka]

You can bleed it you're self with a 10mm line wrench, but you need someone to pump the pedal for you.
You want to loosen the fitting with pressure on the pedal, and tighten it before the pedal hits the floor.
Make sure to wear safety glasses and be aware that brake fluid will squirt out of the fitting, so you don't want to put too much force on the pedal to keep the mess to a minimum. If any fluid gets on painted parts, make sure to rinse it off with water as soon as you're done; it's not good for paint.