Brakes locking up?

1996 CHEVROLET 2500
243,000 MILES • 5.4L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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DAVID JOHNSTON
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Every time when I go to drive my truck listed above the front brakes will lock up with very little force usually at the top of the pedal, if you baby it, it will stop but if you just go ahead too far it will automatically lock them up, but just on the first couple times after that they will work just fine.
Aug 8, 2023 at 3:25 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

What you described sounds like issues we had with brakes years ago getting damp. Once driven a bit, they would begin to work normally.

Do both front brakes lock? If they do and there is nothing leaking onto the calipers such as brake fluid, then I would suspect the brake proportioning valve is failing.

I attached a pic of the part below along with the directions for removing and replacing it.,. It is mounted to the ABS unit under the hood.

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.
Aug 8, 2023 at 11:16 PM
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