Most Toyota Land Cruisers come equipped with a vacuum brake booster system that utilizes a Red Jacket siphon check valve. This valve helps to ensure a consistent flow of hydraulic brake fluid to the brake master cylinder, which is essential for the proper functioning of the braking system.
However, like all other components of your vehicle, the Red Jacket siphon check valve can develop faults over time. Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate a faulty power vacuum brake booster check valve.
Soft Brake Pedal
If you notice that your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when pressed, this could be a sign that the check valve is failing. A soft brake pedal means that the brake booster is not receiving enough vacuum pressure, causing it to decrease the amount of pressure used to apply the brakes. A failing check valve can, therefore, cause reduced braking power or even total brake failure, which is dangerous.
Increased Stopping Distance
Another common sign that your check valve might be faulty is increased stopping distance. You may notice that your vehicle takes more time to come to a complete stop, even when you press the brake pedal. This is because the brake booster is unable to provide enough pressure to the brake system due to a lack of vacuum pressure.
Dashboard Warning Light
Most modern vehicles have a dashboard warning light that alerts the driver of any potential issues with the braking system. If the check valve is failing, the dashboard light may come on, indicating fault codes like ABS or brake system error codes.
Hissing Sound
A hissing or sucking sound is another sign of a faulty check valve. The valve should prevent vacuum leaks during operation, but if it's failing, you may hear a hissing sound coming from the brake booster chamber.
Conclusion
If you notice any of the above signs, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. A faulty Red Jacket siphon check valve can put you and other road users at risk, and it's something that should be fixed as soon as possible.
Regular maintenance of your vehicle's brake system, including the check valve, can help to prevent such issues. However, if you suspect that something is wrong, don't hesitate to seek professional help. With proper care and maintenance, your braking system can last for many years and provide safe and efficient stopping power when you need it the most.