1988 Dodge Caravan brake vibration

MATTYHILL

MEMBER
1988 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
131,000 MILES

Replaced my brake system and most of my front end on a 1988 dodge Caravan SE-V-6. Getting a rumbling shudder (vibration) from the passenger side ( or so it seems)when the brakes are applied. Even replaced the rotor a second time. Replaced the inner and outer tie rod and the sway bar bushings. Driving me nuts! Got a front end alignment a few weeks ago, and I noticed the inner tie-rod boot all twisted up from him adjusting it. I straightened it out, tested to see if the inner tie rod connection was loose (not). Running out of ideas. The only thing I haven't replaced is the control arm bushings and ball-joint, all which I've bought.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,916 POSTS

Did you use a torque wrench on the lug nuts?

I think I'd start by removing one wheel, replacing the lug nuts, then install a dial indicator and run the engine in gear. Any run-out more than.005" will cause the caliper to move back and forth on its slides. Worn spots on the slides will cause the pads to catch and clunk as they move over the rough spots.

Did you install a new rotor or used one? Used ones will have a round rust spot at the location of the bolt access hole in the hub. If not cleaned off, that rust will hold the rotor away from the hub causing a severe wobble.

Noise can also come from rust pitting and flaking on the back side of the rotor. When you reassemble everything, be sure to torque the lug nuts to 95 ft / lbs. Use brake assembly lube on the caliper slides too.

Caradiodoc