[1956century]

Hi,

I haven't driven my car for about a month while away. I started and moved it a couple days ago to get something out of the garage... all was fine. Today I went out to drive it and the brake pedal was completely spongy and would push all the way to the floor -- no brakes! My car is a 1956 Century with stock manual drum brakes.

Does anyone know what could have caused this and what to look for? As of now the car only stops with the emergency brake.

Thanks

[Dave41]

Start by checking brake backing plates for signs of fluid leaks from the cylinder this is the most common cause, if none is evident you will have to do it the hard way pull each brake drum off. you can also check whether the master cylinder has a leaking secondary seal
dave

[kaycee]

Check the fluid level in the master cylinder first, and refill it if needed, If it needs fluid, check for leaks in the lines and hoses and the wheel cylinders. If it does'nt need fluid, your problem is probably in the master cylinder. Sounds like you have a fluid leak somewhere. If need be, pull each wheel and drum off to check wheel cylinder leakage, and if the master cylinder is low, look at the lines and hoses while someone pumps up the brake pedal. It could also be a master cylinder leaking internally, which would require rebuilding or replacing it. You'll have to bleed the system after the problem is solved of course. If it's a leaking line or hose ,the fluid will squirt right out on the ground or up on the frame, etc. and you'll know real quick after refilling the master cylinder and pumping the brake pedal a while.
kaycee

[1956century]

It turned out to be the right rear wheel cylinder. I replaced it, bled the brakes, and all was good. Thanks.

[stealthbob]

WoW!

If I were you I would buy a lotto ticket....the fact that it happened in your garage and not at a highway intersection is very fortunate. Was it just a small leak or was it completely blowout?

Glad to hear you got it before anythig serious happened.