2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Problem (?) while braking?

[GO 4LO]

When braking to a stop over a rough road, my brakes seem to act funny. Every time I hit a big seam in the road, there's a loud clunk. I don't know if this is the brakes momentarily locking up or what, but the brakes seem to work fine, just a loud clunk right as I hit a big bump with the brakes on at less than 15 mph or so. Any idea what this could be?

Chris

 

[GO 4LO]

Anybody else experience this before?

 

[y-knot]

Since I know you have recently just bought the truck, I would start with removing the rear wheels, and having a look for yourself. The braking system is very important and subject to much abuse. A complete check over would help determine what if anything is wrong.

 

[GO 4LO]

I've actually already pulled the wheels and checked everything out (couple weeks ago). Looks like I've got at least 50% life left all around. Do you think this clunk might be an ABS quirk? I've never owned an ABS-equipped vehicle before... The pedal itself doesn't change feel, just there's a clunk (which admittedly isn't a huge clunk, so I may just be making up problems ). It's happened maybe four or five times since I got it, always with the brakes on pretty hard and when going 15 mph or less...

Chris

 

[AggieJustin]

I've heard the same noise before, here's my theory.



With the light rear-end on these things, running down a rough road causes enough bouncing that the rear tires are loosing contact with the road. When you're on the brakes and the wheels lose contact, they immediately slam to a stop since there is no force (other than their momentum) to keep them turning. When this happens, the ABS responds and releases pressure. But I think the clunking noise is the sudden stop of the wheel before the ABS kicks in.



I'm at a loss for a better option, so this is what I'm going with. I've been through the rear brakes and haven't found anything physically wrong with them. Or maybe I'm just crazy...