[Healeys] Brake problem

[Ron Ray]

Hi Michael,
 
It does sound like a leak of sorts.
But, it could also be a brake temporary locked up and the brake fluid
overheated.  That might explain why you cannot duplicate the problem in the
garage.
 
  Ron
 
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: healeys-bounces at autox.team.net [mailto:healeys-bounces at autox.team.net]
On Behalf Of Michael Oritt
Sent: Monday, April 30, 2012 6:17 AM
To: Austin Healey
Subject: [Healeys] Brake problem
 
Yesterday while returning from a ride in the 100 I applied the brakes and
the pedal went to the floor--fortunately the emergency brake slowed me down
enough that I could negotiate the upcoming turn and come to a stop.
 
After a few deep breaths I stepped on the brake pedal--this time it was
normal and the brakes functioned seemingly fine. I checked the hydraulic
fluid reservoir and it was full. I was less than a mile from the garage so
returned slowly though the brakes continued to work fine and got me back.
 
In the garage I applied the brakes a few more times, all normal except for
one time when I held my foot on the pedal it and it went slowly to the floor
like I was pushing fluid out somewhere through a very small leak but there
were no leaks. Next push the brake pedal was high and firm. Retested several
times at 15 to 30 minute intervals--no problems, but obviously something is
wrong here!
 
I haven't pulled the master cylinder off and apart yet but am thinking that
the return valve is somehow hanging up. FWIW I have a BT7 discs in front and
drums in back and a single circuit setup with a valve in the rear brake line
which serves as a poor man's proportional setup.
 
Thoughts?
 
Best--Michael Oritt