Interesting Brake Problem

[Litton]

When I first got my 280SEL, one of the first tasks was to redo the brakes. Changed all the pads, replaced two rotors, checked all pistons for proper operation, changed the front brake lines, and bleed the system like crazy to replace all the old fluid with new DOT 3.

All is well in that it stops quickly, straight, and with good solid pedal........while going forward. In reverse it's a differant story. When backing down my driveway (pretty steep) while the engine is still at high idle, it almost refuses to stop.

My first thought is that I still have a problem with the rear brakes that is only evident when there is a huge weight transfer.....like backing down a steep grade.

As anyone else experienced a similiar problem.

[300SDog]

DOT 3 is the wrong fluid to use...... gotta get DOT 4.

[psfred]

Rear calipers are stuck. Probably time for a rebuild. Alternate failure is a bad rear brake line or two -- if you did the fronts, replace the rears, too. Flush out with DOT 4 fluid, it's better.

When reversing, the rear brakes are going to do most of the work, the effect is worse on a grade. Stuck rear brakes will make the front tires slide on gravel.

Check the rear rotors for rust on the friction surface -- it there is any, they aren't working.

Peter

[Tomguy]

If you've checked all else and still have no ideas, it could be the master cyl (although not too likely, it can happen that it doesn't pressurize the rear enough) - test it by switching one of the front lines with the rear line.