Jonesy

Just a little update... Connected a pressure gauge between the accumulator and the post it sits atop. 0 psi with the pump motor running. Haven't had time to try flushing the system. Thanks again for the info!

Lou, No the system has not been flushed ever, well at least not while my dad has owned the car. (approx.10 years) I don't know if it's relevant or just coincidental but the problem occurred on the drive home (a few blocks) after having new front brake pads installed. Personally I'd think not but now with your mentioning the non-standard master cylinder, I don't know...??? As for the pump, couldn't the accumulator be removed and a gauge installed to check pressure? Thanks again, Lou! I really appreciate your taking the time to answer my questions!

Lou, thanks for the info! One thing for which we're certain is that the pump is on, you can hear it and feel it vibrating. IIRC it's supposed to shutoff after 15-45 seconds, correct? Well, in our case it just seems to run continuously... btw, the ABS and brake warning lights stay on as well.

Yeah thanks, I'm looking at that website now! So that accumulator is a direct replacement?

JMN... Where did you find the accumulator? My dad has one of these cars and suddenly his brakes has lost the assist so it takes quite a bit of brake pedal force to stop the car. Btw... is there any online source material thoroughly describing how the brake system operates? I have an older Audi that utilizes a hydraulic assist brake system as well but the pressure accumulator is "charged/pressurized" via the power steering pump. In looking a the TC's accumulator there appears to be a cylindrical electric motor attached to the assembly; does that do the charging? I'd greatly appreciate any info you can provide! Thanks!