Dragging brake & dash lights
#1
Dragging brake & dash lights
Hi all,
Recently I bought a 2000 Dakota. It pleases me to say it is running fine for the most part, however there seems to be some issues with the brakes. When I bought it, it was in need of a brake job (pads, rotors & drum related stuff were all worn). So I replaced all the routine components with new stuff. Should also note when I purchased it both the ABS and brake light were (and still are illuminated). The RWAL doesn't work and nor does the parking brake (need to replace cables... will get to it eventually).
Anyways, the real problem I am having is a dragging passenger drum in the back. However, I don't think it is always dragging. I can't for the life of me figure out why. Everything is installed and properly seated, and the adjuster mechanism is working fine. The truck should be able to move just from the engine idling. Sometimes it does, other times it doesn't (when it doesn't, because the brake is dragging). I haven't discerned a clear pattern yet. Also, when I take off the wheel to check, everything seems to retract properly. It is important to note, however, that I can only check when the brakes are cool. When I notice the brake is dragging, despite wanting to, I can't do an examination because the components are way too hot. Thus all my inspections have been before driving or waiting after until cool.
What I am beginning to suspect is that a valve is not releasing pressure adequately, thus the dragging brake (it would also explain the brake light, which is supposed to indicated a hydraulic problem. No leaks, however). If this were the case, wouldn't both sides drag? I know for a fact it is only the passenger side dragging - or that it is the only side dragging to such a degree that it is actually noticeable.
Any thoughts what could be the cause?
For the record, here is a complete list of what was replaced.
Front: pads & rotors
Rear: shoes, all springs, adjuster hardware, drums
Some other background info. I see there is a thread a bit below complaining of spongy brakes. I can push my pedal all the way to the floor (with engine running) without much effort. I find this a bit bizarre, but yet the brakes work fine (I don't have to push to the floor when in motion. Just a little pressure is enough to slow and stop the vehicle).
Recently I bought a 2000 Dakota. It pleases me to say it is running fine for the most part, however there seems to be some issues with the brakes. When I bought it, it was in need of a brake job (pads, rotors & drum related stuff were all worn). So I replaced all the routine components with new stuff. Should also note when I purchased it both the ABS and brake light were (and still are illuminated). The RWAL doesn't work and nor does the parking brake (need to replace cables... will get to it eventually).
Anyways, the real problem I am having is a dragging passenger drum in the back. However, I don't think it is always dragging. I can't for the life of me figure out why. Everything is installed and properly seated, and the adjuster mechanism is working fine. The truck should be able to move just from the engine idling. Sometimes it does, other times it doesn't (when it doesn't, because the brake is dragging). I haven't discerned a clear pattern yet. Also, when I take off the wheel to check, everything seems to retract properly. It is important to note, however, that I can only check when the brakes are cool. When I notice the brake is dragging, despite wanting to, I can't do an examination because the components are way too hot. Thus all my inspections have been before driving or waiting after until cool.
What I am beginning to suspect is that a valve is not releasing pressure adequately, thus the dragging brake (it would also explain the brake light, which is supposed to indicated a hydraulic problem. No leaks, however). If this were the case, wouldn't both sides drag? I know for a fact it is only the passenger side dragging - or that it is the only side dragging to such a degree that it is actually noticeable.
Any thoughts what could be the cause?
For the record, here is a complete list of what was replaced.
Front: pads & rotors
Rear: shoes, all springs, adjuster hardware, drums
Some other background info. I see there is a thread a bit below complaining of spongy brakes. I can push my pedal all the way to the floor (with engine running) without much effort. I find this a bit bizarre, but yet the brakes work fine (I don't have to push to the floor when in motion. Just a little pressure is enough to slow and stop the vehicle).
Last edited by curiousgeorge; 04-18-2013 at 07:51 PM.