Brakes are hard as a rock, and the brake pedal does not go back up when pressed?

1998 DODGE DAKOTA
165,000 MILES • 3.9L • 6 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
DANNYBOY929
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The pedal won’t return back up after applying pressure and brakes stay stuck on unless you pull the pedal backup manually. Is that my brake booster? Master cylinder? Or what?
Oct 9, 2022 at 5:18 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like something came apart in the booster. Do me a favor and try this. Loosen the bolts on the brake master cylinder. Don't remove them. See if the pedal moves easily a short distance where you have created play between the master cylinder and the booster. If you did, then suspect the Master Cylinder. However, I suspect it's the booster.

Do this and let me know the results.

Joe

See pic below. Note: you don't have to fully remove the nuts holding the Cylinder on. If you want to, gently remove the Cylinder away from the booster. Make sure not to damage the steel brake lines. Also, pic 2 shows the brake pedal and push rod that goes to the booster, make sure nothing has come apart there as well.



Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Oct 9, 2022 at 7:07 PM
Advertisement