How do I Replace the Brake Booster on 88 4Runner?

The brake booster installed on the firewall of a 1988 Toyota 4Runner creates additional pressure for the brake master cylinder, making it easier for the driver to depress the brake pedal. If the booster should go out, it will become difficult to stop the SUV. Most shops won't service these brake boosters, but it is inexpensive to replace them yourself. Replacing the brake booster should take about an hour.

Instructions

1

Pop the hood. Unbolt the brake master cylinder from the brake booster using an open-end wrench, and then slide the master cylinder off of the brake booster. Remove the clamp holding the vacuum line to the brake booster using the pliers and then pull the vacuum line off of the booster.

2

Crawl underneath the dash. Locate the clevis and pin that hold the brake booster linkage to the brake pedal. Remove the clip in the pin using the needle-nose pliers and then pull the pin out of the clevis. Unbolt the brake booster from the firewall using the 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and sockets, and the 3/8-inch universal joint if you need extra accessibility.

3

Pull the brake booster off the firewall using your hands. Slide the replacement booster onto the firewall. Crawl under the dash again and connect the pin to the clevis, then the clip in the pin. Bolt the booster to the firewall using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket and universal joint.

4

Bolt the master cylinder to the brake booster using an open-end wrench. Reconnect the vacuum line to the booster with the pliers.