Fiat Dino Forum (FDF)

Hi all,
I had had a couple of incidences of total brake lock-up on my 2400 spider recently. Just before they began to seize the pedal went solid, but then went back to normal. Then the car went slower and slower until the brakes were locked solid. All this happened in the space of under a mile. The calipers and pistons seem fine, so I suspect the servo under the dashboard. I can't seem to find a repair kit for this type of servo, and I'm reluctant to remove it in case I can't repair it. My questions are:
1. Has any other member experienced similar symptoms as described, and how did you fix it
2. Does anyone know where a repair kit can be obtained, or a reconditioned servo unit.
Any help would be gratefully received. I am based in the U.K.
Thanks, Brian BS1470

Brian, the symptoms observed seem to indicate a defective brake master cylinder. Superformance sells these at GBP 300 +VAT. However, if you want to be on the safe side, take the complete unit out of the car (a very unpleasant work ), send the complete unit of brake servo and master brake cylinder to Casa del Freno at Modena / Italy http://www.casafreno.com/ There is Luciano, a very competent brakes specialist. He does complete revisions. You would expect a revision of the servo to cost about EUR 300 + a new master brake cylinder at about EUR 250 + VAT. Plus shipping. (Do it before Brexit otherwhise you will have customs duties on top )
Georg

Georg,
Many thanks for your input. I have a new brake master cylinder here but I didn't think that was the culprit,
Regards, brian

Hi, you can also get a similar situation if your brake hoses starts to dissolve inside.
This is typical if you have old brake hoses, or if silicone brake fluid is used.
When the hoses dissolve inside, they are actually blocked for brake fluid returning.
So when you press the brake pedal you pushes the brake fluid thru (the hose opens/ expand because of the pressure you apply) but the fluid can' t flow back freely. The brakes are then locked!
If you wait 5 min. everything is OK again.

A simple check to figure this out, is to try and bleed the brakes, the brake fluid should flow freely.


BR
Erik

Hi Erick,
Thanks for your response. The hoses are all good, and I am able to bleed the brakes. Still thinking it may be a servo fault, and hoping it can be sorted fairly easily.
Thanks, brian