Bad Caliper? (Page 1/1)
chaotichamster9 JUL 08, 06:31 PM
So recently brought my 88 GT in for brake work. The passenger front wheel was getting hot and making a burning smell/smoke. Got new rotors, ceramic pads, and seal kits for the calipers. Picked the car up from repair and after some light driving I notice the same issue again: the wheel is hotter to the touch than the other 3 and burning smell. However, it comes and goes this time. Is this a bad seal kit on the caliper? Noticed the rotor on that side also has some scratch rings already too.
Dennis LaGrua JUL 08, 06:46 PM
It is common for the steel pistons to corrode in the aluminum caliper bore and freeze their movement. That is why when rebuilding a brake caliper it is necessary to hone the bore, replace the piston and the seals. Only a half ass mechanic on a wheel that has a sticking caliper would call a seal replacement a "brake job" .

------------------
" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

[This message has been edited by Dennis LaGrua (edited 07-08-2019).]

fierofool JUL 08, 10:11 PM
Another possible cause of a sticking brake is a bad brake hose. Rebuilds or new calipers won't fix the problem.

With age hoses begin to deteriorate inside with little pieces starting to stick out like fish scales. If they break in a direction pointing downstream they act like one way valves and will let fluid pass to the caliper but block it from returning back into the lines.
randy86 JUL 09, 10:11 AM
You could have a bearing going out, does it make any sounds?

Also, does the car pull to the side with the hot rotor and is the wheel hard to turn. That would indicate a frozen caliper to me.

[This message has been edited by randy86 (edited 07-09-2019).]

chaotichamster9 JUL 10, 06:25 PM
Heard back from the mechanic. They confirmed that they indeed did replace the piston and say that the wheel is free spinning and doesn’t appear seized. Says that they think it’s a brake hose/line issue and that the proportionary valve (?) may be bad. Does this sound on point? Can you buy new proportionary valves anywhere?