86 560SEL

i replaced front rotors and pads recently.

when I drive with my window down sometimes i hear what sounds like a metallic scraping sound as i come to a stop. almost like the wear clip on some brakes but not quite that loud.

i took the wheels off to look but don't see anything amiss. the rotors aren't scored and still smooth. everything is in place, the pins, spring, wear sensors

i hear it on the driver's side, but that may be because that's the window i have down? never hear anything inside with windows up

any thoughts?

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R Martin
Dallas, TX (Addison)

86 560SEL, 128K

Did you check to see if you get the noise with the front end jacked up & turning the wheels by hand? The wheels shouldn't be tight & dragging.

rsmartin, the front caliper(s) may not be releasing properly either due to corrosion on the pistons or restriction in the brake hose(s). Check how easily the caliper pistons retract and proceed from there. If the front brake hoses are original it's best to replace them.

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Fred Hoelzle

they don't make any noise until i actually apply the brakes and then only when i'm coming to a slow stop.

but the hoses are original so i'm sure it would be a good idea to replace them. after 25 years!

car has 98K miles

i squeeze the pads back with channel locks. takes a pretty good grip but not impossible

with the wheels off, the hub turns but has a slight drag, but not what i would think is abnormal as the pads touch the rotors and provide a little drag, right?

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R Martin
Dallas, TX (Addison)

86 560SEL, 128K

What kind of replacement parts did you use? Are they mercedes?

rsmartin, using Channel Lock pliers the caliper pistons should move easily. I would replace the brake hoses and see what effect that has on the effort required to depress the caliper pistons. MB recommends changing brake fluid every 2 years (since it absorbs moisture) to eliminate corrosion of the caliper pistons.

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Fred Hoelzle