Brakes don't Bite Options

[bkrantz]

As part of my rebuild I completely replaced the brake system:
calipers and rear pressure valve rebuilt by PMB
new ATE 19mm master cylinder
new hard and flex lines
new disks and Porterfield R4-S pads

I went through many (many!) episodes of bleeding, with different methods. The pedal feels very firm from the first push, and does not pump up. Rear clearance is set at .004". I went through the PMB bedding process, and have driven around a bit.

But the braking force seems weak. When I get on the brake pedal, I do not feel any "bite". Another 914 friend drove the car and also agrees.

Any suggestions?

[bkrantz]

Thanks for all the replies.

Yes, I can lock up the fronts. It takes a good shove, and maybe the left locks before the right.

I hear you about bleeding and stubborn air. Like I said, I went through several episodes with different techniques. And I will do more, with all the chanting and banging on components I can think of.

I went through the bedding process again today, and maybe the brakes feel a bit better.

And I realize that 1960s engineering, and small, single piston calipers can only do so much. But I still think I should feel more bite and urgency when I get on the brakes hard.