manual

[mudduck52]

Is there somewhere to get the factory manual that came with the car? Does the power brakes have a one way vaccuum valve like american cars? I cant even see the power brake booster and the brakes are great at high vaccuum but a hard pedal if I have any throttle.

[TerryY]

The brake booster in the 8 series is Hydraulic rather than Vacuum

There is no commonly available comprehensive manual for the 8 Series. The Bently manual for the E32 7 series covers quite a bit of common ground with the 8 (60 to 70%).

Try here for some information. http://forum.clube31.com/

And search the archives here. http://bimmer.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/e31/

Have you checked the fluid level in the PENTOSIN resevoir? Black with hand knob on the top.

DO NOT add ATF to the resevoir. It gives you the Pentosin type number required on the lid of the resevoir. Even a little ATF can play hell with a very expensive power steering pump.

If I remember correctly you need to pump the brakes about 20 strokes with the engine off and then the level should be within an inch of the top of the canister.

Pentosin is available at the dealer or Bav Auto--Price is about the same when you include shipping. Mercedes and several other makes use the same fluids.

[mudduck52]

Ok, its hydraulic, why does it work well at high vaccuum? I mean whats the process? Oh, I didnt want a maint. manual but the instuction book that came with the car.

[TerryY]

The owners manual is available at the Dealer.
You might try E-bay but that could take a while.

The best place to ask tech questions is on Roadflys 8 board. I am one of only 3 or 4 8 series people here and I haven't had to fool with the brakes on mine at all.

http://bimmer.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/e31/

[TerryY]

Owners manual on E-Bay Item # 2449951054

Ends Sunday evening 12/28