ESP JEEP CHEROKEE 1995 Service Repair Manual

LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
CONTENTS
page page
CHASSIS AND BODY COMPONENTS........ 28
DRIVETRAIN........................... 22
ENGINE MAINTENANCE................... 15GENERAL INFORMATION.................. 1
JUMP STARTING, TOWING AND HOISTING.... 9
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES................ 4
GENERAL INFORMATION
INDEX
page page
Classification of Lubricants................... 2
Components Requiring No Lubrication........... 2
Fluid Capacities........................... 3
Fuel Requirements......................... 1International Symbols....................... 1
Introduction.............................. 1
Lubrication and Replacement Parts
Recommendation......................... 2
INTRODUCTION
Lubrication and maintenance is divided into re-
quired and recommended service tasks. The required
service tasks must be completed to verify the emis-
sion controls function correctly. The recommended
service tasks should be completed to maintain safety
and durability.
This information will assist the service personnel
in providing maximum protection for each owner's
vehicle.
Conditions can vary with individual driving habits.
It is necessary to schedule maintenance as a time in-
terval as well as a distance interval.
It is the owner's responsibility to determine the ap-
plicable driving condition. Also to have the vehicle
serviced according to the maintenance schedule, and
to pay for the necessary parts and labor.
Additional maintenance and lubrication informa-
tion is listed in the Owner's Manual.
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
Chrysler Corporation uses international symbols to
identify engine compartment lubricant and fluid in-
spection and fill locations (Fig. 1).
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
All gasoline engines require the use of unleaded
gasoline to reduce the potentially harmful effects of
lead to the environment. Also unleaded fuel is neces-
sary to prevent damage to the catalytic converter/O2sensor. The fuel must have a minimum octane rating
of 87 based on the (R + M)/2 calculation method.
CAUTION: UNLEADED FUEL ONLY must be used in
vehicles equipped with a catalyst emission control
system. All vehicles have reminders printed on the
instrument panel below the fuel gauge and on the
fuel filler door. The vehicles also have fuel filler
tubes that are specially designed to accept only the
small-diameter dispensing nozzles. It is illegal to
bypass the design of an unleaded fuel filler tube
and contaminate the fuel system.
Fig. 1 International Symbols
JLUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 1

120,000 MILES (192 000KM)
²Change engine oil.
²Replace engine oil filter.
²Lubricate steering linkage.
²Replace spark plugs.
²Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid.
²Change front and rear axle fluid.*
²Inspect brake linings.
²Replace air cleaner element.
²Replace distributor cap and rotor.
²Replace ignition wires.
²Adjust or replace drive belts.
²Replace fuel filter. See note #1.²Drain and refill transfer case fluid.
NOTE 1:Not required for California vehicles, rec-
ommended for proper vehicle performance.
* Off-highway operation, trailer towing, taxi, limou-
sine, bus, snow plowing, or other types of commercial
service or prolonged operation with heavy loading,
especially in hot weather, require front and rear axle
service indicated witha*inScheduleÐB. Perform
these services if you usually operate your vehicle un-
der these conditions.
Inspection and service should also be performed
anytime a malfunction is observed or suspected.
0 - 8 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

²Do not allow passengers to ride in a vehicle being
towed.
²Always observe state and local laws regarding tow-
ing regulations.²Do not tow a vehicle in a manner that could jeop-
ardize the safety of the operator, pedestrians or other
motorists.
²Do not attach tow chains, T-hooks, J-hooks, or a
tow sling to a bumper, steering linkage, drive shafts
or a non-reinforced frame hole.
GROUND CLEARANCE AND RAMP ANGLE
GROUND CLEARANCE
CAUTION: If vehicle is towed with wheels removed,
install lug nuts to retain brake drums.
A towed vehicle should be raised until lifted wheels
are a minimum 100 mm (4 in) from the ground. Be
sure there is adequate ground clearance at the oppo-
site end of the vehicle, especially when towing over
rough terrain or steep rises in the road. If necessary,
remove the wheels from the lifted end of the vehicle
and lower the vehicle closer to the ground, to in-
crease the ground clearance at the opposite end of
the vehicle. Install lug nuts on wheel attaching studs
to retain brake drums.
FLAT-BED TOWING RAMP ANGLE
If a vehicle with flat-bed towing equipment is used,
the approach ramp angle should not exceed 15 de-
grees.
TWO-WHEEL-DRIVE VEHICLE TOWINGÐXJ
Chrysler Corporation recommends that a vehicle be
towed with the rear end lifted, whenever possible.
TOWING-REAR END LIFTED (SLING-TYPE)
CAUTION: Do not use steering column lock to se-
cure steering wheel during towing operation.
2WD XJ vehicles can be towed with the front
wheels on the surface for extended distances at
speeds not exceeding 48 km/h (30 mph).
(1) Attach J-hooks around the axle shaft tube out-
board of the shock absorber.
(2) Place the sling crossbar under and forward of
the bumper.
(3) Attach safety chains around the frame rails.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position to
unlock the steering wheel.
(5) Secure steering wheel in the straight ahead po-
sition with a clamp device designed for towing.
(6) Verify that steering components are in good
condition.
(7) Shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
Fig. 3 Correct Vehicle Lifting LocationsÐTypical
Fig. 4 Tow Vehicles With Approved Equipment.
JLUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE 0 - 11

line. You may encounter fuels containing 3 percent or
more methanol along with other alcohols called cosol-
vents.
Problems that are the result of using methanol/gas-
oline blends are not the responsibility of Chrysler
Corporation. They may not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
MTBE/ETBE
Gasoline and MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether)
blends are a mixture of unleaded gasoline and up to
15 percent MTBE. Gasoline and ETBE (Ethyl Ter-
tiary Butyl Ether) are blends of gasoline and up to
17 percent ETBE. Gasoline blended with MTBE or
ETBE may be used.
CLEAN AIR GASOLINE
Many gasolines are now being blended that con-
tribute to cleaner air, especially in those areas of the
country where air pollution levels are high. These
new blends provide a cleaner burning fuel and some
are referred to asReformulated Gasoline.
In areas of the country where carbon monoxide lev-
els are high, gasolines are being treated with oxygen-
ated materials such as MTBE, ETBE and ethanol.
Chrysler Corporation supports these efforts toward
cleaner air and recommends the use of these gaso-
lines as they become available.
IGNITION CABLES, DISTRIBUTOR CAP AND
ROTOR
Inspect and test ignition cables, distributor cap and
rotor when the spark plugs are replaced. Oil and
grime should be cleaned from the ignition cables and
distributor cap to avoid possible spark plug fouling.
Mopar Foamy Engine Degreaser or equivalent is rec-
ommended for cleaning the engine compartment. For
proper service and diagnostic procedures refer to
Group 8D, Ignition System.
IGNITION TIMING
The ignition timing for 2.5L and 4.0L engines is
not adjustable. Refer to the specifications listed on
the engine Emission Control Information Label. Re-
fer to Group 25, Emission Control Systems for addi-
tional information.
SPARK PLUGS
Ignition spark plugs should be replaced at the
mileage interval described in the Lubrication and
Maintenance Schedules. Refer to the General Infor-
mation section of this group. For proper service pro-
cedures refer to Group 8D, Ignition Systems.
BATTERY
WARNING: WEAR SAFETY GLASSES, RUBBER
GLOVES AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING WHEN HAN-DLING/SERVICING A BATTERY. THE BATTERY
ELECTROLYTE CONTAINS SULFURIC ACID AND
WILL CAUSE HARM IF IT CONTACTS SKIN, EYES
OR CLOTHING. IT WILL ALSO DAMAGE PAINTED
(AS WELL AS UN-PAINTED) SURFACES OF A VEHI-
CLE. IF SULFURIC ACID CONTACTS ANY OF
THESE, FLUSH IMMEDIATELY WITH LARGE
AMOUNTS OF WATER. IF SULFURIC ACID CON-
TACTS SKIN OR EYES, GET IMMEDIATE MEDICAL
ATTENTION. DO NOT SMOKE IN THE VICINITY OF A
BATTERY. KEEP OPEN FLAMES AND SPARKS
AWAY FROM BATTERY FILLER CAPS BECAUSE
EXPLOSIVE GAS IS ALWAYS PRESENT.
Inspect battery tray, hold down and terminal con-
nections when other under hood service is performed.
For proper diagnostic procedures refer to Group 8A,
Battery/Starting/Charging System Diagnostics. For
service and cleaning procedures refer to Group 8B,
Battery/Starter Service.
Care should be taken when disposing a bat-
tery after removal from a vehicle. Lead-acid
batteries are highly poisonous and, when indis-
criminately disposed, could create a problem
for the environment. Contact the applicable lo-
cal city or county government agency to deter-
mine where automobile (lead-acid) batteries
can be properly disposed in the local area.
RUBBER AND PLASTIC COMPONENT INSPECTION
CAUTION: Plastic hoses or wire harness covers will
melt or deform when exposed to heat from exhaust
system or engine manifolds.
Position plastic or rubber components away from
moving parts in engine compartment or under vehi-
cle, or damage will result.
Do not allow rubber engine mounts or other com-
ponents to become oil contaminated, repair cause
of oil contamination and clean area.
All rubber and plastic components should be in-
spected when engine compartment or under vehicle
service is performed. When evidence of deterioration
exists, replacement is required. To reduce deteriora-
tion of rubber components, Chrysler Corporation rec-
ommends Mopar Foamy Engine Degreaser or
equivalent be used to clean engine compartment of
oil and road grime.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM
Inspect all emission control components and hoses
when other under hood service is performed. Refer to
emission system Vacuum Hose Label located on the
inside of the hood in the engine compartment and
Group 25, Emission Control Systems for proper ser-
vice procedures.
0 - 20 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

CAUTION: Do not subject the bearings, cups, bores
or journals to heat from a torch or other abuse. Per-
manent damage could result. Special tools are
available and recommended when servicing axle.
DIFFERENTIAL CASE REMOVAL
(1) Remove the axle shafts, refer to Axle Shaft Re-
moval.
Side play and runout checks taken during
disassembly will be very useful in reassembly.
(2) Check differential side play. Position a screw-
driver or pinch bar between left side of axle housing
and case flange (Fig. 9). Use a prying motion to de-
termine if any side play exists. There should be no
side play.
Side play resulting from bearing races being
loose on case hubs require replacement of the
differential case. Otherwise, use threaded ad-
juster to remove the side play before measuring
the ring gear runout.
(3) Eliminate any side play in the differential case.
Attach Dial Indicator to Pilot stud C-3288-B. Place
the indicator plunger at a right angle (90É) to the
ring gear (Fig. 10). The plunger should exert a slight
force against the gear face.
(4) Measure runout by turning the ring gear sev-
eral complete revolutions. Observe the dial indicator
pointer. Mark the ring gear and the differential case
at the areas of maximum runout. The ring gear
runout should not exceed 0.13 mm (0.005 inch). If the
runout exceeds 0.13 mm (0.005 inch), a damaged dif-
ferential case could be the cause.Marking the differential case will be very use-
ful later during differential case runout mea-
surement.
(5) Mark the differential housing and differential
bearing caps for installation reference (Fig. 11).
(6) Remove the bearing threaded adjuster lock
from each bearing cap. Loosen the bolts, but do not
remove the bearing caps.
(7) Loosen the threaded adjusters with Wrench
C-4164 (Fig. 12).
(8) Hold the differential case in place. Remove the
bearing caps, adjusters and differential case (Fig. 13).
Each differential bearing cup and threaded
adjuster must be kept with their respective
bearing.
PINION GEAR SHAFT REMOVAL
(1) Remove the pinion gear nut and washer. Use
Puller C-452 and Wrench C-3281 to remove the pin-
ion gear yoke.
Fig. 9 Differential Case Side Play Test
Fig. 10 Ring Gear Runout Measurement
Fig. 11 Housing & Caps Marked For Installation
Reference
JREAR SUSPENSION AND AXLES 3 - 35

CAUTION: Never loosen pinion gear nut to decrease
pinion gear bearing preload torque and never ex-
ceed specified preload torque. If preload torque is
exceeded a new collapsible spacer must be in-
stalled. The torque sequence will have to be re-
peated.
(23) Measure pinion bearing preload torque by ro-
tating pinion shaft with a Newton-meter or an inch-
pound torque wrench. The correct bearing preload
torque is 1 to 2 Nzm (10 to 20 in. lbs.). This torque
value is with replacement bearings and pinion nut
tightened with a minimum of 285 Nzm (210 ft. lbs.)
torque (Fig. 27).
When using original pinion rear bearing and
a replacement front bearing. The correct pre-
load torque is 1 Nzm (10 in. lbs.) in addition to
the torque measured and recorded during dis-
assembly.
The bearing preload torque should be con-
stant during a complete revolution of the pin-
ion gear shaft. If preload torque varies during
rotation of the shaft, there is an internal bind-
ing that must be corrected before final assem-
bly.
(24) If the specified torque is not obtained, tighten
the nut in small increments until the preload torque
is obtained.
The differential will be unacceptable for use
if the final nut torque is less than 285 Nzm (210
ft. lbs.) torque. If the preload torque is not
within the specified range this is also unaccept-
able.
DIFFERENTIAL CASE INSTALLATION
(1) Apply a coating of hypoid gear lubricant to the
differential bearings, bearing cups and threaded ad-
justers. A dab of grease can be used to keep the ad-
justers in position. Carefully position the assembled
differential case in the housing.(2) Observe the reference marks and install the
differential bearing caps at their original locations
(Fig. 28).
(3) Install the bearing cap bolts (Fig. 28). Tighten
the upper bolts to 14 Nzm (10 ft. lbs.) torque. Tighten
the lower bolts finger-tight until the bolt head is
lightly seated.
DIFFERENTIAL BEARING PRELOAD AND RING
GEAR BACKLASH ADJUSTMENT
The following limitations must be considered when
adjusting the differential:
²The maximum ring gear backlash variation is
0.003 inch (0.076 mm).
²Mark the gears so the same teeth are meshed dur-
ing all backlash measurements.
²Maintain the specified threaded-adjuster torque
while adjusting.
²Excessive adjuster torque will introduce a high
bearing load and cause premature bearing failure.
Insufficient adjuster torque can result in excessive
differential case free-play and ring gear noise.
²Insufficient adjuster torque will not support the
ring gear correctly and can cause excessive differen-
tial case free-play and ring gear noise.
The differential bearing cups will not always
immediately follow the threaded adjusters as
they are moved during adjustment. Ensure ac-
curate bearing cup responses to the adjust-
ments. Maintain the gear teeth engaged
(meshed) as marked. The bearings must be
seated by rapidly rotating the pinion gear a
half turn back and forth. Do this five to ten
times each time the threaded adjusters are ad-
justed.
(1) Use Wrench C-4164 to adjust each threaded ad-
juster inward (Fig. 29) until the differential bearing
free-play is eliminated. Allow some ring gear back-
lash (approximately 0.01 inch/0.25 mm) between the
Fig. 27 Bearing Preload Torque Measurement
Fig. 28 Bearing Caps & Bolts
JREAR SUSPENSION AND AXLES 3 - 41

ABS SYSTEM CHANGES
A different master cylinder, power brake booster,
and HCU are used in the 1995 Jeep ABS system.
The master cylinder reservoir has a single filler cap
and is no longer interconnected with the HCU. The
new HCU has built-in accumulators. The pedal travel
sensor has been eliminated and a new dual dia-
phragm power brake booster is used.
BRAKE FLUID/LUBRICANTS/CLEANING SOLVENTS
Recommended fluid for all Jeep vehicles is Mopar
DOT 3 brake fluid, or an equivalent meeting SAE
J1703 and DOT 3 standards.
Use Mopar Multi Mileage grease to lubricate drum
brake pivot pins and rear brakeshoe contact points
on the support plates. Use GE 661, or Dow 111 sili-
cone grease on caliper bushings and mounting bolts.
Use fresh brake fluid or Mopar brake cleaner to
clean or flush brake system components. These are
the only cleaning materials recommended.
CAUTION: Never use gasoline, kerosene, methyl or
isopropyl alcohol, paint thinner, or any fluid con-
taining mineral oil to clean brake parts. These fluids
damage rubber cups and seals. If system contami-
nation is suspected, check the fluid for dirt, discol-
oration, or separation into distinct layers. Drain and
flush the system with new brake fluid if contamina-
tion is suspected.
JEEP BODY CODE LETTERS
The body/model identification code letters for Jeep
vehicles are as follows:²Code letters XJ: Cherokee
²Code letters YJ: Wrangler/YJ
The code letters are used throughout this group to
simplify model identification and component applica-
tion.
BRAKE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: ALTHOUGH FACTORY INSTALLED
BRAKELINING ON JEEP VEHICLES IS MADE FROM
ASBESTOS FREE MATERIALS, SOME AFTER MAR-
KET BRAKELINING MAY CONTAIN ASBESTOS. THIS
SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT WHEN RE-
PAIRING A VEHICLE WITH PRIOR BRAKE SERVICE.
WEAR A RESPIRATOR WHEN CLEANING BRAKE
COMPONENTS AS ASBESTOS FIBERS CAN BE A
HEALTH HAZARD. NEVER CLEAN WHEEL BRAKE
COMPONENTS WITH COMPRESSED AIR. USE A
VACUUM CLEANER SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR
REMOVING BRAKE DUST. IF A VACUUM CLEANER
IS NOT AVAILABLE, CLEAN THE PARTS WITH WA-
TER DAMPENED SHOP RAGS. DO NOT CREATE
DUST BY SANDING BRAKELINING. DISPOSE OF
ALL DUST AND DIRT SUSPECTED OF CONTAINING
ASBESTOS FIBERS IN SEALED BAGS OR CON-
TAINERS. FOLLOW ALL SAFETY PRACTICES REC-
OMMENDED BY THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND
HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA) AND THE ENVI-
RONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA), FOR
HANDLING AND DISPOSAL OF ASBESTOS.
5 - 2 BRAKESJ

ABS BRAKE DIAGNOSIS
INDEX
page page
ABS Diagnostic Connector................... 3
ABS Warning Light Display................... 3
Antilock ECU and Hcu Diagnosis............... 3
DRB Scan Tool............................ 3General Information........................ 3
Normal Operating Conditions.................. 3
Wheel/Tire Size and Input Signals.............. 3
GENERAL INFORMATION
The DRB scan tool is required for ABS diagnosis.
The scan tool is used to identify ABS circuit faults.
Once a faulty circuit has been identified, refer to
the appropriate chassis/body diagnostic manual for
individual component testing.
ABS WARNING LIGHT DISPLAY
The amber antilock light illuminates at startup as
part of the system self check feature. The light illu-
minates for 2-3 seconds then goes off as part of the
normal check routine.
An ABS circuit fault is indicated when the amber
light remains on after startup, or illuminates during
vehicle operation.
Verify that a fault is actually related to the ABS
system before making repairs. For example, if the
red warning illuminates but the ABS light does not,
the problem is related to a service brake component
and not the ABS system. Or, if neither light illumi-
nates but a brake problem is noted, again, the prob-
lem is with a service brake component and not with
the ABS system.
ABS DIAGNOSTIC CONNECTOR
The ABS diagnostic connector is inside the vehicle.
The connector is the access point for the DRB scan tool.
On XJ models, the connector is located under the
instrument panel to the right of the steering column.
On some models, the connecter may be tucked under
the carpeting on the transmission tunnel. The con-
necter is a black, 6-way type.
On YJ models, the connector is under the instru-
ment panel by the the driver side kick panel. The
connecter is a black, 6 or 8-way type.
The DRB scan tool kit contains adapter cords for
both types of connecter. Use the appropriate cord for
test hookup.
DRB SCAN TOOL
ABS diagnosis is performed with the DRB scan tool.
Refer to the DRB scan tool manual for test hookup and
procedures. Diagnosis information is provided in the ap-
propriate chassis/body diagnostic manual.
WHEEL/TIRE SIZE AND INPUT SIGNALS
Antilock system operation is dependant on accurate
signals from the wheel speed sensors. Ideally, the ve-
hicle wheels and tires should all be the same size
and type. However, the Jeep ABS system is designed
to operate with a compact spare tire installed.
NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS
Sound Levels
The hydraulic control unit pump and solenoid valves
may produce some sound as they cycle on and off. This
is a normal condition and should not be mistaken for
faulty operation. Under most conditions, pump and so-
lenoid valve operating sounds will not be audible.
Vehicle Response In Antilock Mode
During antilock braking, the hydraulic control unit
solenoid valves cycle rapidly in response to antilock
electronic control unit signals.
The driver will experience a pulsing sensation
within the vehicle as the solenoids decrease, hold, or
increase pressure as needed. Brake pedal pulsing will
also be noted and is anormal condition.
Steering Response
A modest amount of steering input is required dur-
ing extremely high deceleration braking, or when
braking on differing traction surfaces. An example of
differing traction surfaces would be when the left
side wheels are on ice and the right side wheels are
on dry pavement.
Owner Induced Faults
Driving away with the parking brakes still applied
will cause warning light illumination. Pumping the
brake pedal will also generate a system fault and in-
terfere with ABS system operation.
ANTILOCK ECU AND HCU DIAGNOSIS
An ECU or HCU fault can only be determined
through testing with the DRB scan tool. Do not re-
place either component unless a fault is actually in-
dicated.
JABS BRAKE DIAGNOSIS 5 - 3

SERVICE BRAKE DIAGNOSIS
INDEX
page page
Brake Drag............................... 6
Brake Fade.............................. 6
Brake Fluid Contamination................... 7
Brake Noise.............................. 7
Brake Pull............................... 6
Brake Warning Light Operation................ 5
Brakes Do Not Hold After Driving Through Deep
Water Puddles........................... 7
Component Inspection...................... 5
Contaminated Brakelining.................... 7
Diagnosing Parking Brake Malfunctions.......... 8
Diagnosis Procedures....................... 4
General Information........................ 4Hard Pedal or High Pedal Effort............... 6
Low Pedal............................... 5
Master Cylinder/Power Booster Test............ 8
Pedal Falls Away.......................... 5
Pedal Pulsation (Non-ABS Brakes Only)......... 6
Power Booster Check Valve Test............... 9
Power Booster Vacuum Test.................. 9
Preliminary Brake Check..................... 4
Rear Brake Grab.......................... 7
Road Testing............................. 5
Spongy Pedal............................. 5
Wheel and Tire Problems.................... 7
GENERAL INFORMATION
The diagnosis information in this section covers
service brake components which include:
²disc brake calipers
²disc brakeshoes
²drum brake wheel cylinders
²drum brakeshoes and brake drums
²drum brake support plates
²parking brake mechanism
²master cylinder/combination valve
²vacuum power brake booster
²brake pedal and brakelight switch
²brake warning light
DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURES
Service brake diagnosis involves determining if a
problem is related to a mechanical, hydraulic or vac-
uum operated component. A preliminary brake check,
followed by road testing and component inspection
are needed to determine a problem cause.
Road testing will either verify proper brake opera-
tion or confirm the existence of a problem. Compo-
nent inspection will, in most cases, identify the
actual part responsible for a problem.
The first diagnosis step is the preliminary brake
check. This involves inspecting fluid level, parking
brake action, wheel and tire condition, checking for
obvious leaks or component damage and testing
brake pedal response. A road test will confirm or
deny the existence of a problem. The final diagnosis
procedure involves road test analysis and a visual in-
spection of brake components.
PRELIMINARY BRAKE CHECK
(1) If amber ABS light is illuminated, refer to ABS
Brake System Diagnosis. If red warning light is illu-
minated, or if neither warning light is illuminated,
continue with brake check.(2) Inspect condition of tires and wheels. Damaged
wheels and worn, damaged, or underinflated tires
can cause pull, shudder, tramp and a condition simi-
lar to grab.
(3) If complaint was based on noise when braking,
check suspension components. Jounce front and rear
of vehicle and listen for noise that might be caused
by loose, worn, or damaged suspension or steering
components.
(4) Inspect brake fluid level:
(a) If vehicle has one-piece master cylinder, fluid
level should be within 6 mm (1/4 in.) of reservoir
rim.
(b) If vehicle has nylon reservoir with single
filler cap, correct level is to FULL mark on side of
reservoir. Acceptable level is between FULL and
ADD marks.
(c) Remember that fluid level in the reservoir
compartments will decrease in proportion to nor-
mal lining wear. However, if fluid level is abnor-
mally low, look for leaks at calipers, wheel
cylinders, brakelines and master cylinder.
(5) Inspect brake fluid condition:
(a) Fluid should be free of foreign material.Note
that brake fluid tends to darken over time.
This is normal and should not be mistaken for
contamination. If fluid is clear of foreign ma-
terial, it is OK.
(b) If fluid is highly discolored, or appears to con-
tain foreign material, drain out a sample with a
clean suction gun. Pour sample in a glass container
and note condition described in step (c).
(c) If fluid separates into layers, obviously con-
tains oil, or a substance other than brake fluid,
system seals and cups will have to be replaced and
hydraulic system flushed.
(6) Check parking brake operation. Verify free
movement and full release of cables and foot pedal or
5 - 4 SERVICE BRAKE DIAGNOSISJ

hand lever. Also note if vehicle was being operated
with parking brake partially applied (this will cause
red light to remain on).
(7) Check brake pedal operation. Verify that pedal
does not bind and has adequate free play. If pedal
lacks free play, check pedal and power booster for be-
ing loose or for bind condition. Do not road test until
condition is corrected.
(8) If components inspected look OK, road test ve-
hicle.
ROAD TESTING
(1) If amber warning light is on, problem is with
antilock system component. Refer to antilock diagno-
sis section.
(2) If red warning light is not on, proceed to step
(4).
(3) If red warning light is on, proceed as follows:
(a) See if parking brakes are applied. If brakes
are applied, release them and proceed to step (4).
(b) Note if brake pedal is abnormally low. If
pedal is definitely low and red light is still on,
check front/rear hydraulic circuits for leak.Do not
road test. Inspect and repair as needed.
(4) Check brake pedal response with transmission
in Neutral and engine running. Pedal should remain
firm under steady foot pressure. If pedal falls away,
do not road test as problem is in master cylinder, or
HCU on ABS models. If pedal holds firm, proceed to
next step.
(5) During road test, make normal and firm brake
stops in 25-35 mph range. Note faulty brake opera-
tion such as hard pedal, pull, grab, drag, noise, fade,
etc.
(6) Return to shop and inspect brake components.
Refer to inspection and diagnosis information.
COMPONENT INSPECTION
Fluid leak points and dragging brake units can
usually be located without removing any components.
The area around a leak point will be wet with fluid.
The components at a dragging brake unit (wheel,
tire, rotor) will be quite warm or hot to the touch.
Other brake problem conditions will require compo-
nent removal for proper inspection. Raise the vehicle
and remove the necessary wheels for better visual ac-
cess.
During component inspection, pay particular atten-
tion to heavily rusted/corroded brake components
(e.g. rotors, caliper pistons, brake return/holddown
springs, support plates, etc.).
Heavy accumulations of rust may be covering se-
vere damage to a brake component. It is wise to re-
move surface rust in order to accurately determine
the depth of rust penetration and damage. Light sur-
face rust is fairly normal and not a major concern (as
long as it is removed). However, heavy rust buildup,especially on high mileage vehicles may cover struc-
tural damage to such important components as
brakelines, rotors, support plates, and brake boost-
ers. Refer to the wheel brake service procedures in
this group for more information.
BRAKE WARNING LIGHT OPERATION
The red brake warning light will illuminate under
the following conditions:
²for 2-3 seconds at startup as part of normal bulb
check
²when parking brakes are applied
²low pedal caused by leak in front/rear brake hy-
draulic circuit
If the red light remains on after startup, first ver-
ify that the parking brakes are fully released. Then
check pedal action and fluid level. A red light plus
low pedal indicates the pressure differential switch
and valve have been actuated due to a system leak.
On models with ABS brakes, the amber warning
light only illuminates when an ABS malfunction has
occurred. The ABS light operates independently of
the red warning light.
PEDAL FALLS AWAY
A brake pedal that falls away under steady foot
pressure is generally the result of a system leak. The
leak point could be at a brakeline, fitting, hose,
wheel cylinder, or caliper. Internal leakage in the
master cylinder caused by worn or damaged piston
cups, may also be the problem cause.
If leakage is severe, fluid will be evident at or
around the leaking component. However internal
leakage in the master cylinder will not be physically
evident. Refer to the cylinder test procedure at the
end of this section.
LOW PEDAL
If a low pedal is experienced, pump the pedal sev-
eral times. If the pedal comes back up, worn lining
and worn rotors or drums are the most likely causes.
However, if the pedal remains low and the red warn-
ing light is on, the likely cause is a leak in the hy-
draulic system.
A decrease in master cylinder fluid level may only
be the result of normal lining wear. Fluid level will
drop somewhat as lining wear occurs. It is a result of
the outward movement of caliper and wheel cylinder
pistons to compensate for normal wear.
SPONGY PEDAL
Air in the system is the usual cause of a spongy
pedal. Brake drums machined way beyond allowable
limits (too thin), or substandard brake lines and
hoses can also cause a condition similar to a spongy
JSERVICE BRAKE DIAGNOSIS 5 - 5