Another worry ?

[jonty1951]

Just had both rear calipers replaced, due to the handbrake levers seizing.
Before, the footbrake always felt solid, but now, it's a bit softer.
Also, when the engine is switched off, the pedal is again hard, but on starting, the pedal goes down slightly.
I believe this is correct.
I'm just concerned that before, I'm sure the pedal was firm all the time !
I fitted pads about 8 months ago, and the pistons screwed back OK, so I cant think that they were seized.
Does it need bleeding again, or am I just trying to find faults !

John

[Mike H]

My guess is that you're thinking it's slightly softer due to the fact that it felt slightly harder when the calipers were seized and there was less resistance!

As far the pedal being hard when the engine is switched off, this is correct, and the same with any servo assisted car. There is no vacuum so it's the solid hydraulic pressure you're feeling. When started, the servo kicks in and does what it's supposed to -assists the brake pedal!

Unless the pedal is spongy under braking or needs pumping, then I would suggest everything is in order.

[jonty1951]

Mike, I cant see how the seized handrake levers would affect the footbrake travel/firmness.
Could you perhaps explain ?

John

[Mike H]

Handbrake levers tend to seize in the 'on' position (as this is where they spend most of their life!) which means the pads are in close contact with the discs, in turn meaning that the only real hydraulic requirement is then for the fronts. The fronts are closer to the master cylinder/servo/ABS in any case, so the amount of hydraulic effort required is much less than with a fully functional system.