Since our trucks create no vacuum, I was wondering exactly how the power brakes work? I know Ford uses a crank driven vacuum pump to operate a conventional brake booster.... but when I look under my hood I see the power steering hoses routed to some unfamiliar device attached to the master cyl. I've heard of similar setups used on Chevy Heavy Duty trucks in the late 70s(?) I think... but never actually seen one. The breaks are obviously more powerful than any vacuum operated system I've ever driven, but I've no idea now it works. ANyone got the answer?<br>-Dave

 

I don't know if your truck is like mine because I have a 95 but the vaccum line from my brakes comes from a hose that is connected to the power sterring pump. I guess they use that pump to make vaccum. I would like to learn more about this myself if anyone has better information. Thanks

 

Your brake booster is driven by PS fluid, as would be seen on larger trucks, until you get to air over hydraulic and full air brakes. This is another good reason to take care of your PS system. You loose it, you lose steering and brakes. :'(<br>As far as the nuts and bolts, it's just a valve inside that opens when you press the brake pedal and allows the PS pressure to assist in applying pressure to the master cylinder piston.<br><br>Chris<br>

 

Yeah, what Stamey said. I change PS fluid every summer. I just pump out the fluid and fill it a couple times while turning the steering wheel lock to lock a couple times.

 

???Ok I've got a 2000 Quad Cab 2500 Diesel Sport and just found out from the shop that the O ring between the power steering pump and brake booster is leaking and the repairs and going to run $1400 to $1800. Has anyone run into a similar problem/situation. Please advise