Refilled the reservoir, pumped the brakes and now I get no braking

1985 FORD FIESTA
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EBERLEKM
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  • 1 POST
after wintering for 4 months I restarted and there was no brake fluid in the reservoir. Refilled the reservoir, pumped the brakes and now I get no braking until the pedal is practically on the floor. A garage has said I need new rear brake shoes.
Mar 13, 2012 at 1:49 PM
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SQM
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hello,

Since you had no fluid in the reservoir. It is a good chance that there is a leak in the brake system. When the fluid leaks it does not allow the master cylinder to build up pressure and the pedal will go to the floor.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/brake-pedal-goes-to-the-floor

Inspect the brake lines as well as the rear wheel cylinders. Leaky wheel cylinder is quite common.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-wheel-cylinder

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you.
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Oct 22, 2021 at 9:22 AM
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