We just had some engine work done (camshaft) and the '86 Camaro came back really screwed up. Never going to him again. But never the less, the brakes are now completely lacking. He says he didn't touch them, or remove any lines or anything. I've thoroughly bled them again and they all move fluid (no kinked lines). I replaced the booster because it probably needed it anyways. Any ideas? I'm about out of them. The pedal goes pretty much all the way to the floor and doesn't really stop it.

 

How big of a cam did you go with? Low vacuum could be your problem but I'm not sure.

Ed

 

hey again guido, tracking me down on a few websites i see. Typically a large cam would not create enough vacuum at idle to have your brakes function. Check your idle vacuum off the motor and report back first. Secondly, is your brake booster even connected to the engine still?

 

Yeah, sorry I forgot to mention. Vacuum is fine. The cam is like a 262, not very hot. We even installed a vacuum canister to be sure (we were at Summit Truckfest and they were on sale for $15!). So plenty of vacuum. It will hold your finger sucked against the tube at idle. And the new booster is in and hooked up ready to go.

I'm thinking maybe rear brakes, I'm a novice but here is why I think that. When you hit the pedal, it drops quickly most of the way to the floor. Then you start to get resistance, and it sinks slowly, until it finally gets full compression and will slow the vehicle.

I may be totally off (I know nothing about realworld brake problems.)

The strange thing is they worked absolutely fine before the new cam. 100% good. Now it reminds me of the brakes they used to put on Big Wheels. You pull and then slide for 30 more feet before you stop.

 

And PS, nice Camaro.

 

is the pedal soft with the engine running AND with the engine off? if so, you've got a hydraulic problem somewhere. if the pedal is firm with the engine off, and goes soft when you start the engine, your problem is likely vac or booster related. if you just had a cam swap done, he definitely had the intake off, which is where the booster gets its vac from. may want to check the vac lines and connections for leaks.

 

looks like we've got a bit of a Midwest CK5/F-Body get together going on here. unfortunately, i'm without F-body at the moment, and probably will be until i buy a house.

 

Houses are overrated. You can sleep in the F-Body!

The pedal is soft with the engine off. Any idea what to check next? My neighbor suggested the proportioning valve but I don't know how to test it.

 

Is it a drum brake car? Blown wheel cylinders will cause the exact scenario you've described.

 

Yes, front discs, rear drums. What do you mean by "blown"? They do not leak, noticeably anyways.