I have an '01 Rancher ES 4x4. My front brake line got a stick rammed through it. Well, at the time my local honda shop wanted $70 for the brake line (junction block to wheels). Also at the time my back brakes worked so I didnt worry about front brakes. Well, my back finally got drenched a couple of months ago so I decided to clean them up and replace the front brake line while I was at it. Ive got the new brake line on and all the air (not a single air bubble using my vacuum bleeder) bled from the system. I still have to pump the lever to get any pressure. Soon as I let off and squeeze the lever again, I have no pressure. Yesterday, I started it up and decided to try to back up after building pressure on the brake lever and holding it in. I could feel that the brakes were grabbing but after backing up half a foot, I lost pressure on the lever and the brakes quit grabbing. It did this every time I tried it. I cant see any brake fluid leaking anywhere (havent pulled the front drums yet to see if the cylinders are leaking) and I still dont get any air bubbles when bleeding the brakes. What gives? You guys have any ideas? This thing is driving me nuts and I cant afford to take it to the shop. Thanks and sorry for the long post.

Rick

 

Did you adjust both of the shoes, on each side? I know you probably did this but if all air is bled out, it's all I can think of.

 

Yeah, I adjusted the pads to where they just barely rubbed when turning the wheel. I cant understand how it looses all pressure but I cant see it leaking anywhere.

 

open up both lines on each side. pump plenty of fluid though to make sure it's clear. Leave the lid off the brake handle to see if you see any bubbles comming back up. Then tighten up everything. Pump up the brakes, hold pressure on the lever and crack each line. KEEP the lever all the way in(it'll go soft). Tighten up everything then repeat a couple times. Key is NOT to let go of the lever when you have the lines open.

then see what you get. Parts like this should not remain open for long periods. The cylinder could have been damaged.