Brakes - SORTED

[tte200]

Hi
My brakes are not as I would expect,
When I operate the pedal pressing hard they only slow you down (they are not spongy)
But if I operate the pedal hard a number of times (pump them) they firm up and operate much better even to the point if I press the pedal hard they will then lock up (usually the back first) and they will stay ok then for a while but eventually go back to being dead.
I have been told if I change the calipers this will resolve the problem or could it be something else before I go to the expense of some upgraded calipers?

They have been generally like this since I got the car some years ago and it always passes the mot

Any ideas suggestions please

Terry

[HJ2]

Even though not spongey... I'd suggest to give them a good bleed first.
Then i'd check if the sliding pins are not seized or sticky. Also check pistons.

You are sure there's no leak, right?! Fluid level does not fall?

[tte200]

Even though not spongey... I'd suggest to give them a good bleed first.
Then i'd check if the sliding pins are not seized or sticky. Also check pistons.

You are sure there's no leak, right?! Fluid level does not fall?

Have bled / changed the brake fluid and the level has never dropped

[HJ2]

Did you undo the rear calipers for a good bleed? Tapped them with a rubber hammer? (bleeding nipple is not in the correct highest position) Also: did you bleed the in-line brake force limiters?

Elan Brakes are a bitch to bleed.
Check slider pins next, do an overhaul if you can, and check the master cilinder...

[nicowalker1]

I would think sticky sliders pumping may be enough to shift them, then they return and stick. Its well worth regreasing them annually anyway, I know your pretty hands on so its an easy enough job. Just be care full with the rubber seals as they can slit easily when old. New ones are pretty cheap anyway.

[tte200]

Thanks everyone for advice, have tried a number of thing with some improvement, and having spoke to PNM Engineering am going to replace the callipers which I have been thinking of doing for some time, just wanted to be sure this would rectify the problem and improve the brakes in general on the car.

[tte200]

Just wanted to say that my brakes are now sorted after picking up a set of Hispec brakes from PNM Engineering at Donington and having them fit them today.
Brakes are now sorted thanks to everyone for advice and PNM Engineering for supplying and fitting, I found them very helpful.
Terry

[Rob P]

Just wanted to say that my brakes are now sorted after picking up a set of Hispec brakes from PNM Engineering at Donington and having them fit them today.
Brakes are now sorted thanks to everyone for advice and PNM Engineering for supplying and fitting, I found them very helpful.
Terry

Glad to see you got these all sorted, I'm running Hi Specs and they are spot on

[HJ2]

Excellent news!