My truck (1999 1500 4WD 5.9 litre) was pulling the the left when braking, so I replaced the front pads, rotors, and made sure they calipers weren't frozen. They both compressed easily when I used a c-clamp to retract them, so I think they're find.

The truck still shakes and pulls to the left under braking. Is it possible that the left rear drum is hanging up some? Do they sometimes develop smooth and rough spots so they will make it feel rough/shakey while braking? Would it be worth my time to take them off and maybe sand the braking surface of the drums?

I hate working on drum brakes. The springs always cause me problems.

Thanks!

 

Have you checked all the front suspension parts and hub bearings to make sure it's all good? If it is , you should replace the brake hoses too, they can expand or collapse inside and cause this. But I would look at the rears anyway and adjust them properly like you should every so often.

 

Have you sprayed brake cleaner on your front discs yet?

Once I had to rebuild a knuckle (on a Toyota) and I happened to get just the tiniest bit of grease on there... and it would pull quite severely. A few shots of brake cleaner and the problem went away.

Good Luck,
Cartman

 

I think your trak bar has play in it.

 

i'd guess the right front hose is soft, and swelling under braking. replace both front hoses.

 

In short, yes Drums like disks can get hot and warp and develop poor break feel. Also, just like disks, every time you do a break change on them the drums need to be turned (if still within spec) or replaced.

However, I'd guess your pulling problem is up front somewhere.

 

When I pulled the rear brakes apart, I found a leaking wheel cylinder. Problem solved. As far as the trac bar, that was replaced Wednesday, so that should be good.

Thanks for the suggestions guys

Chris