Yes, sounds like a dragging/rusted caliper(s). If you replace them, I'd also replace the flexible brake lines at the same time.

 

Well, well, well, after installing the new calipers, I attempted to mount the passenger wheel and noticed the wheel bearing is shot.

So . . . . that could be the initial problem. Bearings goes, caliper goes, brakes feel weird, etc.

Ugh, this will be the fourth set of Timken bearings since 2001. This time, I'll try to do them myself. Always had a shop do them because of the crazy torque and axle socket. But this time I have a house and tools. Probably do ujoints as well since they are about ten years old. Also the 4th set.

Wish me luck. Will be awhile getting parts and such. I'll let you all know how the brakes turn out once the hubs and joints are done. Weee.

 

Always something with an elderly vehicle... Glad you found the likely culprit/causes...

 

Use spicer SPL u joints!

 

Already got them. Learned that years ago. In fact, it's usually me who's yelling "5-760x!" on here.

Crap. Timkens were backordered so I got SKF. Still better than what parts stores carry. Should be here in four days.

 

So two of the hub bolts are pretty badly rusted and the threads flattened. The shop probably just used an air wrench instead of torquing to spec.

A quick search shows they are discontinued but a few are floating around at 25-37 bucks a piece!!

Any other place to look? I don't want to wait a week to get two bolts. The hubs arrived and I'm ready to go. Is there a replacement option? They are 14mm 12pt.

 

Any local pick and pay salvage yards in your area? If so, take a breaker bar and a good 14MM 12 point socket and grab a few. That's the cheapest and quickest way to find them.

 

Go to your local hardware store/lowes/home depot/TSC/Family-farm-home, and match 'em up to the hardware they have on the shelves. Grade 8 please.

 

I ordered one from ebay. I went to Fastenal and the Ram dealer. They had nothing close. If they didn't, then no one would.
Oh well.

I got everything installed. Ujoints were a paint to pound out but got the new ones installed easily. Just waiting on the new bolt to finish up. Also got the brakes bled. Went for a little drive and seem fine. Will know more when the third hub bolt shows up.

Will keep you all posted.

 

Well, it's been quite a day.
The bolt finally came (late) today.
So I got that on and torqued and took it for a spin. The freaking front brakes are still STICKING. All new calipers, booster, and master.

Then I was stumped. Decided maybe I'd get another bleeder kit?
The guy at the store thought the flexible lines were bad and had a blockage keeping the calipers tight. Hmm. They are original. Okay.
$90 bucks later, I had the new brake hoses installed. Bled again.
STILL STICKING.

I remember early on hearing that the booster could be adjusted. So tonight I finally tried that. The new booster has a goofy 2 nut dongle on a piston that comes out. I adjusted it tighter (more throw) and the pedal had more travel but the calipers didn't stick. Hmm. So I tried another adjustment just a little looser (less throw) and the brakes seem better. I couldn't get them to stick the last drive. Maybe it's good now?

Also did a spin in 4wd in some mud and there's a rotational sound from the front, only turning left. I sure was careful doing ujoints and seated them so it they nice and floppy. Huh. Might tear it all apart again tomorrow to check my work. It spins nice in 2wd with no sound.

Also noticed a humm in 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Probably pinion bearing. I've never had any work done on the rear end. Or front for that matter. Just seals, joints, and bearings all these years and miles.

Back to brakes, the only other thing I could think of that can cause the calipers to stick on would be the proportioning valve. Doubtful though. Hope my booster adjustment works.

I'll be in touch.