Defender Td5 brakes

[Sisu9]

The brakes on my 110 are not as 'good' as they should be, despite new calipers all round, new fluid (x4) Brembo pads (fitted today) no better than the newish Bearmachs that were on previously. Don't you just hate it when you through a bunch of cash at a problem and it makes no difference whatsoever! No man maths can solve this today

What next, in order of cheapness - braided hoses, new master cylinder, new servo? I know it doesn't stop like a 911 but it stopped better when it had seized, rusty calipers front and rear. Any ideas much appreciated?

Edited by Sisu9 on Monday 20th June 06:32

[Sisu9]

i went to a specialist here in the UK and he told me thought it was either the servo or the brake pipes. I did the simple check for the servo and upon starting the pedal does sink somewhat so didn't do the suction test.

I'm running brand new GF Goodrich KM3's at 34/38 psi.

[Sisu9]

Just had a thought on this, the brakes became more poor after a garage (not an LR specialist) fitted new calipers all round and rear brake pipes a few months back. I took the car back for the brakes to be bled again, fearing there was air in the system, but nothing really improved.

Just trying to narrow down where I should concentrate my efforts. Any ideas welcome.

[Sisu9]

I've changed the new Bearmach pads for Brembo to see if that made a difference but it didn't. The only other new component was Bearmach calipers and I wouldn't have thought they'd be worse than the rusty and seized originals.

[Sisu9]

The vehicle is unladen and has recently passed the MOT. I have also done the pedal sink test. The rear brake pipes have recently replaced. The front pipes were not replaced so I guess there could be a problem there.

[Sisu9]

Yes could be. I've half a mind to buy some braided hoses.

[Sisu9]

Good advice and makes a lot of sense re the circumstances. Bought a brake cylinder refurb kit and new hoses and will try that. Cheaper fixes first!

The brakes are neither spongy or hard, they're just not that good. This was the case just after the front caliper change and before the new tyres were fitted.

[Sisu9]

255/85 on Wolfs.

[Sisu9]

Just wanted to report back on this as I think it's also useful for anyone else who experiences problems.

Braided hoses have been fitted front and rear and this has much-improved braking, to the point where the wheels almost locked on tarmac (no ABS). On talking to the mechanic, he told me that although the brake hoses looked ok on the outside they can decompose on the inside and therefore compromise braking. I think with further bedding in of the pads they may improve still further.

Play in the steering was also somewhat improved by only 1/8th tightening of the steering box.