At that kind of mileage, the ball joints are getting tired - See if they have been replaced already. Same goes for other suspension/steering stuff.

Worst case scenario with the lack of vacuum, is that the vacuum pump needs rebuilding - See if you get any kind of vacuum from the one of the T's before it goes into the brake booster.

Check the radiator fluid in the reservoir - Make sure there isn't any sort of contaminant in there, or that the fluid itself is groady.

Have Fun!

-Larry

__________________
It is a truism that almost any sect, cult, or religion will legislate its creed into law if it acquires the political power to do so. Robert A. Heinlein


09 Jetta TDI
1985 300D