Volvo Repair: Brake Booster, volvo xc70, vacuum leak

Question
2003 volvo xc70.
Hi Mark,  Our volvo started making a loud vacuum leak sound.  It seems to be to the right of the gas pedal behind the console.  When I looked under the hood I also could hear it on the drivers side of the engine compartment.  When I turned off the engine, what I think was a vacuum pump stayed on for about 2 min.
A call to the dealership suggested it was the brake booster, $1000.00 repair.
What do you think?  If it is the booster, how hard is it to fix myself?
Thanks Peter


Answer
  Peter, I doubt very much that it is the brake booster. More likely the plastic line that leads to it from the engine or the check valve on the booster itself.
  Not too hard to change yourself. Just unbolt the master cylinder and gently push to the side using care not to crimp any of the brake lines. Then it's on your back under the dash to remove the four bolts.

Mark