85 Honda Civic stalling

1985 HONDA CIVIC
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JMARTY
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I have an 85 Honda Civic 4wd wagon with 170,000 miles. When you press the brake it feels spongy, you hear a hissing sound, then the idle drops. If you hold the brake, the car stalls, only to start right back up again. I'm thinking vaccuum leak, but don't know where to begin. If you help me solve this problem, I will make a donation!
Dec 29, 2006 at 3:08 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
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Is there a booster on that car to assist with the brakes? They are generally vacuum operated.
Dec 29, 2006 at 7:45 AM
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JMARTY
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Yes, there is a booster. Would the vacuum in the brake booster be tied in to the vacuum for the whole engine?
Dec 29, 2006 at 11:23 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,754 POSTS
Generally, yes. The car has to try and regulate the engine speed to overcome the leak.
Dec 30, 2006 at 1:31 AM
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JMARTY
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Thanks, I tested the brake booster and it appears to be malfunctioning. I am going to replace it in the next couple of days, we'll see if that fixes it. Thanks again, I'll keep you posted.
Dec 31, 2006 at 5:58 PM
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