'94 STS rear brake overheating

Pablo 94STS · #1 (**permalink**) 01-02-08, 08:45 PM

I just replaced both rear pads. First I did the passenger side using cube tool, and except for bleeding knuckles, all went fine. Second I did the driver's side. So I had already done one and all went well. After reassembly, I drove about 5 miles and when I stopped, I smelled something. Driver's side wheel was very hot. Passenger side was not. I must have done something wrong on the driver's side. I know I'll be taking it back apart in a day or two to re-do it, but/and can anybody make an educated guess as what "could" go wrong in an otherwise smooth installation, or what to pay close attention to ?? ?

Thanks in advance.

JimD · #2 (**permalink**) 01-02-08, 09:08 PM

The brake caliper mounting pins could be corroded-bent-distorted which can prevent the brake pads from floating free of the rotor. Check the pins on the "hot" side and be sure they are clean and true; reassemble using a light coat of the proper high temperature caliper pin grease.

And then go back and do the other rear side the same way.

Those calipers must be able to easily move in the lateral direction (as in side to side).

Pablo 94STS · #3 (**permalink**) 01-02-08, 09:16 PM

Thanks... as to the "play" it seems that once the parking brake is ever used, they will pretty much stay snug to the disk, won't they ??

JimD · #4 (**permalink**) 01-03-08, 08:17 PM

The park brake mechanism applies mechanical force to cause the rear brake pads to squeeze the brake rotor.

The service brake pedal applies hydraulic pressure to the caliper piston which causes the brake pads to squeeze the brake rotor.

Different methods of applying force to position the brake pads, but the result is the same.

It makes no difference which method is used to move the brake pads. And when the braking force is removed, the brake pads will (should) float in a relaxed position with zero friction on the rotor.

There is a mechanical problem if the brake pads are contacting the rotor when the brakes are not applied. Unusual friction heat is the result.

The most common, but not the only, mechanical problem is corroded-bent-distorted brake caliper pins.