Simple... SOmeone put DOT 3 brake fluid in your system. Vanagons
   require DOT 4.   DOT 4 brake fluid has a higher Boiling point
   (or temperature range). When you got the brakes hot the fluid boils
   which is now air in the lines.. = pedel to the floor.

                 Eric Zeno
                 emz@nauticom.net
                 86 Syncro
                 86 GL
                 72 240Z
               1936 Chrysler

On Tue, 30 Jul 1996, Chris Wyatt wrote:

> 
> Hi all, 
> 
> Scenario:
> While coasting down a steepish dirt road carrying a moderate load, 
> braking now and again, trying not to ride the brakes, the pedal suddenly 
> became very soft, and braking power greatly reduced.  This lasted until I 
> reached the bottom of the hill, 3 miles or so.  At the next stop, the 
> brakes seemed fine.  There was an odor burnt something afterward.  Since 
> then, the horrible squealing of the brakes experienced first thing every 
> morning, has vanished.  No other problems for 2 days.  
> 
> What happened?
> 
> Chris Wyatt
> Fairbanks, Alaska
> '87 Syncro GL
>