I have a 94, with 177,000 miles on the ticker now. The brakes have been acting up, and I need some experienced input so I don't start taking stabs in the dark.
Randomly, the brakes will get hard. It does not do it all the time, and I can't pinpoint any action that precipitates it. It happens more at low speeds, and either forward or reverse, but also happens at higher speeds. The truck will still stop, but the brakes are as hard as if the engine was off. The vacuum pump had been professionally replaced before I bought the truck. I fished around tonight, and found that the vacuum line coming off the pump was loose on the nipple. I put a hose clamp on it, but they still behave the same. I do know that the shoes and pads are in good shape. The reservior has plenty of brake fluid. And, the brake/abs light are not on. I have replaced the rear ABS sensor, but not the two front ones.
Anybody had similar problems, and what was your solution? I don't want to start replacing parts. I know the vacuum pump is making some vacuum at least, because 4WD engages.
Blessings to you all.

 

Do brakes get hard when stopped with foot on brake? Possible internal leak in brake booster. Do you hear any noise in cab when your foot is on brake? If you have a vac gauge it will help to diag problem. T into vac hose then start engine let idle for minute. Shut off engine does vac stay steady or drop off? If it stays steady then step on brake pedal it should drop slightly then stay steady. If you loose all vac with one brake application then booster is bad. If not then possible vac hose leaking. Make sure your idle speed is at 750RPM in gear with AC on if automatic trans. Too low RPM will not build enought vac. Replace any hoses at vac pump if soft or oil soaked. Make sure check valve at vac pump is installed.
A revised power brake booster check valve p/n 05011393AA has been released for service. The new check valve performance has been improved by changing the flapper style check valve to a spring loaded style check valve. The spring loaded style check valve performance is superior especially in vehicles that utilize mechanical vacuum pumps to provide the vacuum source to operate the power brake booster. Part number 05011393AA should be used anytime the power brake booster check valve is serviced on the subject model vehicles.

 

also check the main vacuum supply hose off the pump. over time they can get soft from oils and heat and collapse under a vacuum.

 

Your truck likely has a vacuum system problem and may be eligible for recall.
Recalls are good for free for the life of the vehicle no matter how many miles or owners.
Check here if the recall has been done, you will need your VIN
http://www.dodge.com/webselfservice/...m('R')