Classic/Antique Car Repair/Brake problem

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Expert: - 6/6/2008


Question
I am interested in buying a 1969 corvette; 350.  The brakes do not work and want to know thru process of elimination which steps I should perform in order to identify the problem. It may be the brake lines need bleeding, but with your answer, I will know how to attack this when I visit this seller.  Thank you in advance. Jeff

Answer
The first step is to check the master cylinder for fluid. If it is empty it indicates a leak some where and bleeding will probably do nothing except waste fluid. Now, fill the cylinder and pump the brakes a few times. If the pedal starts to get firm  and holds then there would appear to be no major leaks. Check under the car for fluid leaks and check the back side of all four tires looking for fluid. If the seller is willing to let you, pull off all 4 wheels and check the system. If it is tight then bleed the system and check it from there.
Good luck, Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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