1998 Ford Ranger Brakes locking up

Is this happening to the rear brakes? If so, the most likely cause is glazing of the brake shoes and drums. WHat you need to do it this. Remove the tires and drums. Take the drums and have them "LIGHTLY" cut just to take the glaze off. Before replacing them, take sandpaper and sand off the glaze from the brake shoes. That should take care of the problem.

Also, make sure there is no gear lube (from a leaking axle seal) or brake fluid (from a leaking wheel cylender) getting on anything. The leaks can cause this too.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe

If the brakes release when you take your foot off the pedal, I need you to try something. Many times a glaze will build up between the pads and the rotors. For some reason, when it is damp outside, it gets worse. Normally, it pertains to rear brakes, but I have seen it happen to front too.

Take the brake pads off, sand them with 220 grit sandpaper until they loose their shine and are dull in color. Next, remove the brake rotor and take it to a shop that works on brakes. Tell them you want the minimum cut from them as possible. Your only goal is to eliminate the glaze. Explaine they are not warped.

That should take care of the problem. However, I have to say, it may come back after some miles. Honestly, I think it has someting to do with the cheap parts we get from overseas. Nothing seems to be made here anymore. As a result, we get what we pay for. I would gladly pay double for a brake rotor or drum that was made here in the USA because it would last 5 times longer and not cause any problems.

Regardless, sorry about my rampage. I have two young sons that I would like to see get jobs someday, but I question if there will be any for them.

Let me know if this fixes the problem. Also, if the brake doesn't release properly, let me know before you go to this trouble. I don't know where you live, but around here I could have the rotor cut for around 10 dollars.

Joe