Chrysler Repair: BRAKES 93 T 5 C 3.3, vacuum gauge, vacuum source

Question

   BRAKE PEDAL IS FULL  HARD AND BRAKES BARELY WORK PUSHING VERY HARD.  THERE IS A NOISY VIBRATION ON THE PASSINGER SIDE NEXT TO THE ENGINE. ABS ?

Answer
Hi Larry,
I doubt your problem is related to the ABS system, but rather the conventional part, specifically the power brake unit. I would first check that the large vacuum hose that runs from the intake manifold to the power brake canister (mounted on the firewall behind the master cylinder) is not loose at any of its several fittings or cracked such that the vacuum supply to the power unit is compromised. The source of the noisy vibration might be something that is also associated with the intake manifold which has come loose and thus decreasing the vacuum source strength which then compromises the power brake unit. So try to locate the item that is vibrating, perhaps by putting one end of a small diameter rubber hose in or near your ear and then use the other end as a noise searching tool to better focus your hearing and find the source. If the vacuum supply turns out to not be comprommised, then the power unit will need to be tested to see if it is faulty. But because the power for the power brake unit is the vacuum supply, that has to be verified first. If you have a vacuum gauge I can give you some testing procedures to help find the problem. If the engine is not idling well that too would be indicative of a lower than normal vacuum situation due to a vacuum leak.