Date:         Sat, 15 Sep 2007 17:55:57 -0400
Reply-To:     Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@MAC.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@MAC.COM>
Subject:      B-r-r-r-a-a-a-k-e-s
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; delsp=yes; format=flowed

I'm thinking there are not many better places for this to occur.

I was in my back yard with my Syncro Westfalia. I had finished
unloading and storing my canoe, and was in the process of turning
around to drive around to the front yard. I have a bit of a slope, so
after pulling forward a bit, I pushed in the clutch and started to
roll backward  to get around the corner. I pushed my foot onto the
brake pedal and....it's that sickening feeling of right to the floor.
As I'm accelerating downhill (going backwards) I'm fiercely pumping
the brake pedal (not thinking, just reacting.) Nothing. Just a bit of
resistance as the brakes aren't engaging.

I stop on the level then drive around part of the way to the front
yard (in granny gear). Then stop with the emergency brake. I pull off
the top of the console so I can see the brake reservoir. Fluid is in
there. So I pump the brakes and watch as fluid is leaving
there...never to return. Blast.

So I get out and start looking for drips. Nothing in the rear
(SmallCar rear disc brakes). Nothing on the front left. Ah. Drips
from the front right. Swing around for a better view.

Hmm. Not good. Rear half of wheel well is soaked with brake fluid.
But WHERE is it coming from?

Looks like right at the junction of the metal brake line with the
caliper (SA big brakes). A curious failure point.

Time to get the brake cleaner out and use it on ....shockingly
enough, the brakes. I use the stuff for so much else it is going to
feel weird using on the brake system.

Oh, well. I needed to flush the brake fluid anyway....yah, keep
telling yourself this is good.