318ti.org forum - View Single Post - Brakes

bcp · 04-14-2024, 01:02 PM

First issue is I can't get a hard brake pedal. Based on internet searches, this seems to be fairly common for E36s.

Braking performance is good, the pedal is just soft and has to be pushed down a long way. The pedal holds pressure and everything does what it's supposed to on starting the engine etc, so I'm confident (and let's assume) there are no leaks in the system and the servo is functioning properly.

Pads and rotors are new. I have tried two different (both second hand) MC/servo units. I cycled the ABS pump (using a Foxwell scanner). I have bled literally litres of fluid through the system - both with pressure bleeder and the old fashioned way. No air in the system.

Spec if as follows:
1996 318ti M44B19
E46 330 front rotors and calipers
E39 rear calipers
Stainless lines all round
Racing (600BP) brake fluid (Penrite)
VMax (Australia) rotors and pads

What on earth do I need to do to get a nice firm brake pedal?? Help!

04-14-2024, 01:02 PM	#1
bcp Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Australia Posts: 11 iTrader: (0) Photo Gallery	Brakes - soft pedal and ABS questions First issue is I can't get a hard brake pedal. Based on internet searches, this seems to be fairly common for E36s. Braking performance is good, the pedal is just soft and has to be pushed down a long way. The pedal holds pressure and everything does what it's supposed to on starting the engine etc, so I'm confident (and let's assume) there are no leaks in the system and the servo is functioning properly. Pads and rotors are new. I have tried two different (both second hand) MC/servo units. I cycled the ABS pump (using a Foxwell scanner). I have bled literally litres of fluid through the system - both with pressure bleeder and the old fashioned way. No air in the system. Spec if as follows: 1996 318ti M44B19 E46 330 front rotors and calipers E39 rear calipers Stainless lines all round Racing (600BP) brake fluid (Penrite) VMax (Australia) rotors and pads What on earth do I need to do to get a nice firm brake pedal?? Help!