I had no idea that a leak in any part of the brakes would result in a
total failure. My 1972 Volvo would leave 3 braking wheels if any one
cylinder or line failed.

Do many other cars/vans eschew redundant or at least dual (diagonal)
brake line systems?

On Sep 15, 2007, at 6:40 PM, Joseph Fortino wrote:

> I blew a pass wheel cyl this past week. i was going to do the work,
> but not in
> my own place at this time.. time to get blasted with a BILL ahh,,
> new rear breaks
> now,, but what a mess the wheel cyl left me.. puppy went to the
> floor also.. e-break time
>
> Joe
> 85gl piggy bank?
>
> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Kim Brennan <kimbrennan@MAC.COM>
>> Sent: Sep 15, 2007 2:55 PM
>> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>> Subject: B-r-r-r-a-a-a-k-e-s
>>
>> 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.