Brake issues

Tiny
TYLER PORTER
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 GMC C1500
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 69,000 MILES
I have a Sierra that is having brake related problems. The pads and rotors are at decent condition, but my question is why is it I have to nearly press on the brake pedal so it touches the floor in order to stop even a little bit? I looked online and anything comes up from having the brake lines bled, to something called a booster. I am stuck and in need of a expert to explain and give me their opinion. Please help!
Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 3:12 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
A lot of times when a DIY replaces pad air gets into system at ABS unit. Sometimes using a power bleeder will get it out, if not then it has to be taken to a shop where the mechanic can put his scanner on the vehicle then command all the valves of ABS unit open so it can get all the air out.
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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 6:35 AM
Tiny
TYLER PORTER
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  • 4 POSTS
Thank you, I hope this works, do you have a idea of a "normal" price in having a mechanic opening up the abs valves?
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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 1:02 PM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
It would be just a brake bleed with a scanner.
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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 3:15 PM
Tiny
TYLER PORTER
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thank you for the help. It needed a right rear wheel cylinder and a bleed and flush of the brake system. I could only do so much at this point in time but the brake light is off and there is pressure in the brake pedal and it stops far better than before. I have to save some more so I can do the other side. There was a leak in right rear that got onto and around the brake.
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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 3:46 PM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Both sides should be fixed at once but I know how money situations go. You should have cleaned brake lining if it got fluid on it either with lacquer thinner or brake clean then let it air dry in sun if you can for a few minutes before putting back to gether other wise it will lock up a lot of times.
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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 4:56 PM
Tiny
TYLER PORTER
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I'll definitely do that tomorrow morning. I haven't driven it after I got everything fixed on that right side. I should have money coming in to do the other side to
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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016 AT 9:09 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,627 POSTS
Hey Tyler

You should check the adjustment of the rear brake shoes. Does the emergency brake pedal go to the floor as well? With the emergency brake pedal all the way down is the brake pedal better? these are signs the rear shoe need replacement or are out of adjustment.

Here is a guide that will help you.

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

Please let us know what you find so it will help others.

Best, Ken
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Saturday, October 22nd, 2016 AT 12:00 PM

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