I hate asking a dumb question, but here goes.

[dwitczak]

Brake fluid. I found that my 96 blazer 4x4 with 3.4liter had no brake fluid in it the other day when the e-brake light would not go out. I filled up the fluid and bleed the brakes. I got alot of air out. But I can not find a leak. I have to admit I have not checked the brake fluid level in 6-9 months. Can it magically disappear, like say my engine oil? Or is this a sign of a bigger problem?

[Rick Norwood]

Originally Posted by dwitczak

Brake fluid. I found that my 96 blazer 4x4 with 3.4liter had no brake fluid in it the other day when the e-brake light would not go out. I filled up the fluid and bleed the brakes. I got alot of air out. But I can not find a leak. I have to admit I have not checked the brake fluid level in 6-9 months. Can it magically disappear, like say my engine oil? Or is this a sign of a bigger problem?

I have seen master cylinders leak into the vacuum booster, which is connected to the intake manifold with a large vacuum line. You might be able to pull the vacuum hose fitting out of the vacuum booster and see if there is brake fluid inside. You may need to use something like a pipe cleaner to get down towards the bottom of the booster to tell. The brake fluid might not be making it all the way to the engine, but it could be filling the vac booster.

[dwitczak]

Is this a major problem. What are the possible effects. Other than the loose of brake fluid. How do you stop this from happening?

[Rick Norwood]

Originally Posted by dwitczak

Is this a major problem. What are the possible effects. Other than the loose of brake fluid. How do you stop this from happening?

Yes it is a major problem in that you may find yourself without brakes. If this is actually what is happening, the obvious answer is to replace the master cylinder. I would have this vehicle checked out by a competent garage if you're unsure. Don't mess around with this. No brakes can be a disaster.