Need some advice on intermittent brake problem

I need the wisdom of the board here. Sometimes when you press on the brake it seems very hard, and then it gives and seems normal. It just started happening when I hit around 200,000 miles and happens intermittently. It will work fine for a few weeks then go through a period of random stiff braking. I don't hear any noise. The brakes act normal when the power is off, and most of the time, but it is getting more common. The truck has non abs brakes. does anyone have suggestions on where i should start? Is so, i would really appreciate it. The truck is in great shape and i am hoping to keep it on the road a while.

Thanks!
Dave

 

Check the booster check valve, check valve grommet, and the hose from the check valve to the engine.

Sounds like you don't always have boost. Always start checking with the simple stuff and keep your fingers crossed!

 

Thanks, Bill. I will try it and update the board with the results.

 

Yep, stiff brakes usually point to the brake booster.

 

I agree about the brake booster but before you replace it check the vacuum hose for leaks.

 

Check post #2

 

Sorry I'm not trying to take away your glory here just missed your comment about the hose is all. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?

 

Any updates for us @99 tacomaguy ?

 

update.. .
After my initial post, the problem got a lot more frequent, it was acting up multiple times daily(I drive about 80 miles a day) I decided to start at the beginning so I bled all the brakes/new fluid throughout. It was at night so I did not check anything else at the time. Next day no problem. I have put 500 miles on it since and only have experienced a "hint" of the initial hard braking a couple times. I probably only noticed it since I am waiting on it, but I think it is still there but minimized with the bleed/new fluid. I will keep driving it and see what happens. The old fluid was a little darker than the new but did not look too bad. I will let you guys know if there is any change, appreciate the help.