I recently got a 2002 Dakota QC, with the 360 Magnum, and 143k on the clock. With the exception of a little rough idle, the truck runs great (just need to get in for a tune-up and new plugs / fluids replacement).

One thing I have noticed now is some noise from the back-end when in backing up. Seems to be coming mostly from the driver's side rear wheel, and has a squeaking / rubbing noise--almost like the brake is hung-up. Might that be it, or is there something else I should be looking for?

TIA!

 

That could very well be the noise you're hearing. Is it drum or discs in the back?

 

I had the same problem when I bought my 03 with 4 wheel discs. Turned out, one of the parking brakes was hanging up on the inside of one of the rear discs. Like an idiot, I changed the pads trying to find the problem, but it still had the factory clips holding the disc on, so I never pulled it off. I paid the damn shop to figure it out! Good luck, hope its that easy for you!

 

Thanks guys! Truck has rear drums. Would a hanging parking brake only squeak when backing?

 

Pull the drums and give the brakes a thorough inspection. Make sure the wheel cylinders are operating correctly - they can/do freeze up.


Don't step hard on the pedal though or you'll blow them out.


Make sure the leading shoe is the smaller and the contact points are clean and lubed.

 

Yeah, mine only did that when backing up. It got to the point where you would hear a loud clunk after about 10 feet and then feel the resistance. I've been told that on my rear discs, the parking brake is on the inside of the disc and is designed to work like a small drum, so I'm sure what you're hearing is similar to my problem