Sketchy brake diving/pulling issue
Sketchy brake diving/pulling issue
If you punch the brakes at any speed, my 88 firebird pulls hard to the left, and at high speed it's getting somewhat dangerous (when you arent expecting it). I bought the car about a month ago and tore apart the front brakes, expecting them to be fried, but it had nearly new pads, calipers, and rotors with even wear.
Thinking one of the slide pins may have been seized, I cleaned and lubed it all and put it back together. Still does the same thing.
Possibly related: over the 3 months the car has been sitting, I noticed a small spot of brake fluid from the left rear drum, coming from the inside. I took the drums off and the brakes still look operational, just wet from where the wheel cylinder is leaking. Is this without a doubt, 90% the problem? It seems obvious, but I wanted some input before I start throwing something as boring as drum brake parts at it.
I was an auto tech for awhile, and the pulling really does feel like it's coming from the front. What are the chances the rear brakes are working at full capacity anyway (enough to cause the pulling)
Thanks
Thinking one of the slide pins may have been seized, I cleaned and lubed it all and put it back together. Still does the same thing.
Possibly related: over the 3 months the car has been sitting, I noticed a small spot of brake fluid from the left rear drum, coming from the inside. I took the drums off and the brakes still look operational, just wet from where the wheel cylinder is leaking. Is this without a doubt, 90% the problem? It seems obvious, but I wanted some input before I start throwing something as boring as drum brake parts at it.
I was an auto tech for awhile, and the pulling really does feel like it's coming from the front. What are the chances the rear brakes are working at full capacity anyway (enough to cause the pulling)
Thanks
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 12,804
Likes: 103
From: Central NJ
Car: 86 Trans Am
Engine: 408 stroker sbc
Transmission: TKO600
Axle/Gears: Moser full floater m9, 3:70 trutrac
Re: Sketchy brake diving/pulling issue
My money is in a failing rubber flex hose up front causing this issue. Replace them both.
Rebuild the rear brakes either way, since they are leaking. Do both sides, and the flex hose too.
Rebuild the rear brakes either way, since they are leaking. Do both sides, and the flex hose too.
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 19,282
Likes: 103
From: Lawrence, KS
Car: Met. Silver 85 IROC/Sold
Engine: 350 HO Deluxe (350ci/330hp)
Transmission: T-5 (Non-WC)
Axle/Gears: Limited Slip 3.23's
Re: Sketchy brake diving/pulling issue
The lack of vacuum from a big cam already makes the brakes in the car less than ideal; it would be nice to at least have them more predictable.
Re: Sketchy brake diving/pulling issue
Problem solved. The passenger hose looked kinked and was missing its outer jacket in that spot. Naturally, I ordered two drivers side hoses by accident. I see they are identical except for the way they go into the hanger bracket thing. That was easily "adapeted" with a die grinder.
Senior Member

Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 768
Likes: 32
From: Lansing, MI
Car: 1988 IROC-Z
Engine: 5.7 TPI
Transmission: 700R4
Axle/Gears: 3.45
Re: Sketchy brake diving/pulling issue
Trending Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
F-Body_Fetish
Engine/Drivetrain/Suspension Parts for Sale
16
Apr 28, 2009 01:42 PM









