1999 Chevrolet Cavalier Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

When troubleshooting the hydraulic brake system, perform the following inspections.

Master Cylinder Internal Fluid Leakage Check

Start engine and depress the brake pedal. If the pedal gradually falls under constant pressure, the hydraulic system may be leaking. Raise the vehicle on a lift and inspect all tubing lines and backing plates for signs of leakage. It may be required to lift or remove the carpeting or floor mats to inspect for boost...

• After disassembling power brake unit, soak metal components in solvent.
• Use only alcohol on components containing rubber. After components have been thoroughly cleaned and rinsed in solvent, they should be washed again in clean alcohol before assembly.
• Use compressed air to blow dirt and cleaning fluid from ...

These brakes have self-adjusting shoe mechanisms that ensure proper lining-to-drum clearances at all times. The automatic adjusters operate only when the brakes are applied as the vehicle is moving rearward.

An initial adjustment is required after the brake shoes have been relined or replaced, or when the length of the adjusting screw has been changed during service operations.

Frequent usage of an automatic transmission forward range to halt reverse vehicle motion may prevent the automatic adjusters from functioning, thereby inducing low pedal heights. Should low pedal heights be enc...

Brake Pedal

Toyota/GM Single Diaphragm Type

• With engine running and brake pedal in rest position, measure distance between face of pedal and floor mat.
• Distance should be 5.850-6.244 inches.
• If distance is not as specified, adjust pedal height as follows:
• Remove lefthand lower instrument panel trim section and air duct.
• Loosen stop lamp switch sufficiently to access pedal adjustment.
• Loosen locknut and rotate pedal pushrod as required to obtain specified pedal height. Tighten locknut.
• Adjust brake lamp switch position so plunger lightly contacts pedal stopper and brake lamps are off when pe...

AC-Delco Tandem Diaphragm Type

This unit utilizes a vacuum power chamber, consisting of a front and rear shell, housing divider, front and rear diaphragm, plate assemblies, hydraulic pushrod and a diaphragm return spring, Fig. .

In normal operating mode, with service brakes in released position, the booster operates with vacuum on both sides of its diaphragms. When brakes are applied, air at atmospheric pressure is admitted to one side of each diaphragm to provide power assist. When the service brake is released, atmospheric air is shut off from one side of each diaphragm. The air is ...