1999 Chevy Suburban FRONT BRAKES

PORSCHE962

MEMBER
1999 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
168,500 MILES

I just noticed recently that a burning smell was from the left front whell, and touching it was very hot. So I know that the pad wasn, t coming off properly. Is this a electrical/hydraulic problem, or just a pad problem. The brakes were done a year ago by gm. Also why do the brakes grab hard after sitting a few hours after rain or foggy days.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

The brakes are hydralic. As far as the one that seems to be overheating, make sure the caliper piston and the slides are moving properly and not sticking. If they are good, check the black rubber hose that connects to the caliper. Over the years, they break down inside. As a result, they don't release the pressure from the caliper. To check that, pump the brakes to see if the caliper sticks. If it does, loosten the bleeder to see if once the pressure is released the wheel spins freely.

As far as the touchy brakes, this is a common problem. What seems to happen is a glaze builds up on the rear drums and shoes. That combined with moisture causes them to grab. Chances are the problem stops after driving a short distance, but it is a pain. The only fix (and it's temporary) is to sand the brake shoes and have a very light cut done on the drums to eliminate the glaze in them.

Let me know what you find and if this helps you.

Joe