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Chrysler Repair/1989 dodge diplomat brakes

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Expert: - 8/12/2011


Question
I have a 1989 dodge diplomat with a 5.2 engine. I had put new front brake parts: calipers, rotors,and brake hoses on both sides.  I did not change the master cylinder or power booster. I bled the brakes with the engine off and the brakes work fine. but when I turn on the engine the brake pedal travels down to floor and i have to keep pumping the brakes when moving in order for it to brake. could you please tell me what could be the problem and how to repair it. could it be the booster or master cylinder, if so how could i check these parts before buying new ones. Thank You

Answer
Hi Ryan,
I would suspect a vacuum leak so start by checking the hose from the intake manifold to the power brake unit to be sure it is connected tightly at both ends and not cracked. Then check the other hoses that branch off the vacuum unit (such as the small hose that goes to the HVAC unit in the cabin) to be sure those are not loose or cracked. There is a page in the '89 manual that describes further tests which I can xerox copy and postal mail to you. Use a 'private' follow-up question and tell me your postal mailing address if you would like the page.
Roland

Chrysler Repair

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Roland Finston

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I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2008 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty.

I take questions one at a time between 8am and 10pm CT and attempt to answer within 20 minutes. "Maxed Out" means I am answering another question of otherwise busy, so try again later.

There are answers on file to more than sixteen thousand Chrysler questions at your finger tips: put a few key words in the "find" box (above) or click on "view past answers" for a chronological list of my q and a's. Don't use "Add to this answer" if you still have a question...ask it. As to trucks and jeeps I only have manuals for the '04-'06 model years.

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Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

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Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

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Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

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"Top expert of 2010" and "2011" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts.

Quickest "average response time" at Allexperts (currently no. 1).

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