Brakes dont feel right

[p7387]

1987 305 automatic 2wd

i noticed that when i brake i feel a "sliding sensation" where i need to apply more pressure to  stop.
that "firm comfortable grabbing sensation" is missing.

the pedal height is fine, and i completely replaced the front brakes last year. the smaller reservoir level was low but even after filling it still brakes the same. i have been looking for leaks but so far have not found any. is the "sensation" i describe indicative of some sort of particular problem?

thank you

[VileZambonie]

Start with an inspection. Check your wheels cylinders, lines, hoses, calipers etc for any evidence of wetness.

[p7387]

i performed an inspection..
i recently did new "front" hoses and calipers, no issues there.
i did not yet have the opportunity to pull the rear wheels to inspect the cylinders bit there is no evidence of fluid anywhere on the inside of the sidewall or back of drum area etc.

BUT i did notice a fluid wet spot on the frame and section of line under the bed area. given its location it couldn't logically be from anything else. i didn't see any massive fluid loss when someone was depressing the brakes, i assume the line is porous and fluid seeps slowly depending on pressure applied??

although this "appears" to be the issue could it also have something to do with the "scenario" of fluid leaking from the master and going into the brake booster area? or are there other distinct symptoms for that?  i dont see any evidence of fluid there.

as far as lines go, should i go for pre bent specific for the vehicle?

thanks

[diphthong]

Your power booster could have a small hole in its diaphragm. Do this, jump behind the wheel start the engine let it idle for 30 seconds MAKING SURE to kept your foot off the brake pedal.

Now turn off the engine pump the brakes a few times, then apply slightly more than moderate pressure with your foot on the brake pedal, now with pressure on the brake pedal restart your engine.  If you don't fell the pedal being pulled down your booster is bad.

[diphthong]

If this test fails before buying a new booster make sure your booster is getting that larger amount of vacuum it needs.

[diphthong]

Don't be surprised if you find the booster is where the brake fluid is going.