(Home) Brake servo and squeak suspension

hello all, found you at last. desperately need help with a friends 2ltr townace, diesel 1989. the brakes have to be pushed really hard to stop. we came back from the czech republic in her last year and since then the front right suspension makes a hell of a noise when driving and getting in an out.loud squeaking.bloody annoying.we aint rich so would appreciate any help. she may have to be sold soon due to personal probs but we want to go a few places in her before then.thanks jay ivey. 07788843580...

- (#12380) Jay Ivey, 29 Jul 04 03:43

The squeaky suspension could be cured by a squirt of oil onto the top and bottom rubber bushes of the dampers but, a detailed check of all the rubber mountings is advisable. The top suspension swivel will have a plug in it and this can be removed and replaced by a grease nipple to allow this joint to be greased. The top wishbone mountings also have plugged & tapped holes but, it is a difficult job to get at these to fit a grease nipple.
As it is a diesel, brake vacuum assistance(and vacuum for other components)is suplied via the vacuum pump which is mounted on the end of the alternator shaft. A check should be made that you have vacuum to the brake servo. Also, sticking calipers on the front discs may give the symptoms which you describe and a strip down and overhaul of the caliper assemblies may be required. Get someone to brake while a wheel is lifted off the ground and see if the pads free up when brake pressure is removed.

- (#12380) John Davis (Leics), 29 Jul 04 07:29