rear brakes

[DieselJim]

I just changed the pads and rotors on my rear brakes. One set of pads was totally gone while the other set was half left. I assume from reading other posts that this probably means I have dragging and need rebuilt callipers? These brakes are remarkably simple. My car 85 300SD.

Thanks for any input.

[Wodnek]

That is the likely problem. Sometimes though the rubber hoses close up on the inside either causing a pressure drop to one side or causing one side not to release pressure, causing it to drag.
I would check the rubber hoses. They probably cost almost as much to replace though.
my .02

[P.E.Haiges]

DieselJim,

Loosen the bleed screw on the caliper that had the worn out pads and have someone step on the brake pedal. If the fluid doesn't squirt out readily, the hose to that caliper has probably become restricted. If you are not sure if it might be restricted, try the other side and compare.

Tighten the bleed screw when the brake pedal is released to keep air from getting into the caliper. If the hose has become restricted, it must be replaced.

P E H

[dannym]

The Floating calipers sometimes get stuck. It's easy to split the caliper apart and lube it up. I think a lot of people replace them when they don't really need it.

Just my 2c worth, I believe they should be taken apart and greased every time the pads are changed.

Danny

[P.E.Haiges]

dannym,

What kind of grease do you use to lubricate the calipers? Due to the high temperatured that the calipers are subjected to, I would worry that the grease might burn and make the caliper piston stick worse. I have never heard of anyone else lubricating the calipers.

P E H

[DieselJim]

I would think high temp calliper grease would work? Any specific brand recommended

[300TD]

I just replaced the brakes all around on my 85 300td (rotors, pads, master cylinder, hoses). I also replaced the two front calipers because one of the pistons was stuck. All of the calipers are fixed with no place to lubricate (don't think I would try). Maybe on a floating caliper one could lubricate the top slide and the lower bolt, but not the piston. My opinion is that you spend the money on the brakes and tires, your life depends on them.

[Brian Carlton]

Originally Posted by P.E.Haiges

dannym,

What kind of grease do you use to lubricate the calipers? Due to the high temperatured that the calipers are subjected to, I would worry that the grease might burn and make the caliper piston stick worse. I have never heard of anyone else lubricating the calipers.

P E H

When I take the pads out, I wire brush the machined surfaces of the calipers, where the pads ride, and put a dab of grease along these surfaces. There are four surfaces for each pad. PepBoys sells the grease in a little packet for $1.00. One packet will easily do two wheels.