1992 Chevy Lumina Hard to push brake after heater core goes

KAMAKA65

MEMBER
1992 CHEVROLET LUMINA
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
110,000 MILES

My heater core went out, with coolant coming into the passenger side. Driving the vehicle 2 blocks home after this event I had no problems braking the car.

I have to move it every 3 days so the local police don't ticket it.

I notice that the brakes feel almost frozen now. Did coolant get onto the brakes somehow and cause this problem or is it just a coincidence?

I have to save the money to get it fixed so I have to keep to continue to move it 30 feet or so every couple of days.

Chevrolet Lumina APV, 1992

Monday, October 20th, 2008 AT 6:19 PM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi:
Did you have the heater core replaced?

To me it sounds like you lost vacuum to the brake booster. The booster is located on the driver's side. The master cylender is attached to it. It will have a larger vacuum line attached to it. Check to see if the hose is still attached. If it is, remove it from the booster to check it for vacuum. (Keep in mind, by removing it, you will create a vacuum leak to the engine, so it may die or run rough until it's replaced.)

If there is no vacuum, follow and inspect the hose for cracks, damage, or if it's disconnected from the engine. Repair or replace as needed.

If there is vacuum, take the vehicle to a shop and have them run a vacuum test on the booster.

If you have any other questions, let me know. I hope this helps.

JOe

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Thursday, October 23rd, 2008 AT 3:21 PM

KAMAKA65

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I haven't had the heater core replaced yet. I have to save up the money. What you said is EXACTLY what is happening. When I start the APV up the brakes feel stiff and the engine runs really rough.

I can't get it fixed for a while but at least I have some info to go into the repair shop with.

Thanks a million for your information!

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Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 AT 7:38 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,176 POSTS

Hi:
I'm really gald to have helped you. Please feel free to contact me anytime you have a question. Also, when you're quoted a price for the repairs, let me know and I can look up flat rate hours for the repair to make sure they are not taking advantage of you. Also, I can look up part prices to give you an idea of the cost so you can go in ready.

Take care,
Joe
Positive feedback and votes are appreciated.

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Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 AT 8:28 PM