GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

No Brakes

Possible Cause

Action

No Air Pressure

Check for leaks, broken lines, broken compressor, etc. Repair or replace as necessary.

Restricted Tubing or Hose

Replace the defective parts.

Defective Brake Valve

Repair or replace the brake valve.

Ice In System

De-ice and drain the system. Refer to Draining Reservoirs .

Insufficient Brakes

Possible Cause

Action

Low Brake Line Pressure

Check for leaks, etc. and repair as necessary. Check the governor cut-out pressure. Adjust the check safety valve for correct "pop-off" pressure.

Worn Linings

Replace the linings as necessary.

Plugged, Crimped or Restricted Air Lines

Repair or replace the air lines. Refer to Nylon Air Lines .

Slow Brake Application

Possible Cause

Action

Low Brake Line Pressure

Check for leaks, etc. and repair as necessary. Check the governor cut-out pressure. Adjust the check safety valve for the correct "pop-off" pressure.

Restriction in the Line

Remove the restriction or replace the line.

Leaking or Malfunctioning Brake Valve

Repair or replace the valve.

Worn Linings

Repair or replace the linings.

Quick Loss of Pressure When Engine Is Stopped (Brakes Not Applied)

Possible Cause

Action

Leaking Lines or Connections

Repair or replace the lines or the connections.

Leaking Compressor and Governor

Repair or replace the compressor and/or the governor.

Leaking One-Way Check Valves

Repair or replace the valves.

Leaking Brake System Valves

Repair or replace the valves.

Open or Leaking Reservoir Drain Cock

Close, repair or replace the drain cock.

Quick Loss of Pressure When Engine Is Stopped (Brakes Fully Applied)

Possible Cause

Action

Leaking Compressor Governor

Repair or replace the governor.

Leaking Brake System Valves

Repair or replace the valves.

Leaking Lines or Connections

Repair or replace the lines or the connections.

Safety Valve Blows Off

Possible Cause

Action

Safety Valve Malfunction

Replace the safety valve.

Above Normal Pressure in System

Check the governor cut-out pressure.