2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission brake issues

[frosty]

Ok truck is a '97 2500 4x4. I am having some issues with the brakes both squeaking and grabbing. First thing in the morning while it cool out I have no issues what so ever. Truck stops great, no squeaks and nice and smooth.



But when the brakes warm up or its warm outside, forget about. Brakes squeak and grab so much so that truck will kind of hop and shake. Its starting to drive me nuts.



I have pulled the front brakes apart and greased everything that should be. Also put some duct tape (after reading about on here) on the backs of the pads, which still have lots of life left. Didn't help. I had also thought possibly warped rotors but there is no pulsating in the pedal. Also warped rotors should cause a problem at all times, not just when hot. Or that has been my previous experience with other vehicles.



I am beginning to wonder if its the rear, as I haven't had time to pull the drums and take a look. Would a leaking rear cylinder cause this problem? I would have thought it would to it at anytime, not just after things have warmed up.



Things that have been done since the brakes last worked. One new rear wheel cylinder, rear shoes put on correctly (PO or someone previous to me had put both primarys on one side and both secondarys on the other), one front hub assembly replaced, front brakes apart and thoroughly cleaned and greased. I have also added 2001 aluminum wheels and had the rear drum turned down to fit in the wheel.



Any thoughts or suggestions?

 

[GAmes]

I had about the same problem with a class C motorhome on a Dodge chassis. It was a few years older, so may not apply. The pistons in the caliper were ceramic and one would stick when hot causing it to pull to one side. Perhaps both of your pistons are bad . Something to look at.

 

[Joe G.]

The socalled automatic brake adjusters on the rear work when they feel like it. Try adjusting the rear brakes manually and see if that helps.

 

[frosty]

GAmes,



Its worth a look, but I think they are both ok.



Joe G.



I have been meaning to check that as it had crossed my mind. My Jeep is the same way. I will give it a shot and see what happens.

 

[frosty]

Figured I would post an update. Took the advice of Joe G. and adjusted the rears. This helped in the braking dept but did not fix my squeal or the grabbing issue.



So over the weekend I finally had some time to get into the rear brakes. Pulled the drums and thoroughly cleaned everything with some brake cleaner. Then I applied some grease to every metal surface that made any contact with another metal surface (probably over kill). Made sure the shoes and drums were clean and buttoned everything back up. Took her out for a test drive and not a single squeak, squeal or grab.



That was on Sat and I haven't had a problem since. I figure the rears may have had some grease or brake fluid on them from when it was in the shop last for inspection and work. Also having them apart probably started the squealing in the first place by loosening up parts that may have been a little stuck together.

 

[OTRPU]

I go through a couple sets of fronts a year. I've learned to have the sliders greased about once a quarter. Really get weird wear when you have a hanger. Might see if this helps.



Cheers,

Steve J