ozarks_Runner

Well after neglecting my Toyota over the summer because I spent most my time on two wheels I have some work to get my Runner back up to par before winter really hits in full force

First major issue that I need to deal with is my brakes. I think I have the problem narrowed down, but I don't know how to diagnose any better from this point...
When I brake I have very little pedal feel/pressure in the lines, it just seems to keep on going without much stopping power being applied. It FEELS like I have to mash the pedal to the floor to get the beast to stop. If I pump the brakes the pedal gets nice and firm and seems more like normal. I'm thinking its either my master cylinder or my brake booster, but I don't know how to check these without buying the parts and just doing trial and error. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Happy Turkey Day Everyone!!!

Maj

If pumping the pedal increases the firmness that is a classic sign of air in the lines. Bleed'em.

KdF

You have to replace the Master Cylinder. No way to get air in the lines unless you let it completly run out of fluid or worked on the brakes without bleeding them.

Booster going bad would let you hear a loud hissing sound when pressing the brakes.

Move along....nothing to see here.......

ozarks_Runner

Well I'm glad to hear that its more than likely not the booster, as I was quoted $280 for it and only $85 for the master cylinder. I haven't done any brake work recently and my cylinder isn't leaking or anything which is why I thought maybe it was the booster. I'll stop by the store tonight and buy a bunch of fluid and bleed my lines real good to see if that helps. If they're still soft I guess the next step is a new master cylinder. Thanks for the help everyone