Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) front brakes don't work

[skip1996]

Hi My front brakes on my '96 4x4 w/ 270k miles decided to quit working w/o any warning. At least it was in the driveway- however 65miles from town.

The rear wheels instantly skid (dirt roads only). I have vacuum and when the front wheel is jacked up and spun by hand it stops right-away when pedal is touched. When I drive in reverse the truck stops a little better indicating alittle front brake action however not when going forward. I would have to drive 10miles to get to pavement for a test on pavement. Fluid is ok.

 

[kenny61]

Is it that the rears are locking up as soon as you touch the brakes or only the rears are working? Jack up the front end have someone hold the brake pedal down while the truck is running and try turning the front wheel with a large bar on the lug nuts or axle nut (dont snap a lug nut) If you cant turn a front wheel this means all the breaks work its just that the rears are locking up. The service manula states this could be caused by... ... . Master Cylinder, proportioning valve, or RWAL valve. My personal bet would be on checking the adjustment of the rear breaks when they get really lose they will rock in the drum and lock up... usually at low speed and when cold and wet.

 

[JFaughn]

Check the brake fluid , both the ft & r res should be covered with fluid .
Then lock for leaks on ft lines & hoses .

 

[bmoeller]

Sounds like the rear brakes are out of adjustment. The ABS should've kicked in on the rears. Mine will do the same if out of adjustment.