Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'88 Lincoln Mark VII, Vacuum Problems
Q:
My
"automatic parking brake release" is not automatically releasing
(like it used to) - I have to reach under the dash and use the manual
parking brake release. I also noticed that my cruise control is not working.
I understand (from the Owner's Manual) that these are both vacuum operated.
My question is: Do you think these two problems are related, and is there
anything I can do to remedy it? Weez
A:
It is true that both components do require engine vacuum to operate. Due
to the age of your vehicle it is very conceivable that the vacuum hoses
in the engine compartment are hard and most likely cracked. This would
cause a loss of vacuum supply to these components. Even though your vehicle
is not known for great gas mileage, fixing a vacuum leak that is affecting
the cruise control and em-brake release will make the engine run better
and improve mileage.
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