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  Jim Grant's Tech Tips

‘88 Dodge Caravan, Brake Noise
Q: I have an ‘88 Dodge Caravan (3.0L). The last time I replaced the front brake pads they squeaked! To this point I have now replaced the rotors, pads, calipers, anti-rattle springs, slides, slide boots, and the high pressure lines and they still squeak!!!! I have performed dozens of brake jobs before on both disc and drum brakes and have never experienced this problem. I have even applied the disc brake quiet gel to the backs of the pads to no avail, help!!.....Andy

A: Preventing brake squeak can be a battle and as vehicles age, the battle becomes more difficult. First, what type of brake product are you using? Is it high quality disc brake pads or is it brand X’s "pray they stop"? There is a difference and anyone that tells you there’s not, is full of it. If you’re using a quality product then is the braking surface of the rotor being prepared correctly? New or freshly machined brake rotors must be washed with a soapy water solution. The machining process leaves fine iron dust particles on the disc brake rotor surface. A soapy water wash will lift and remove these fine particles.. If this procedure is not performed, particles will become embedded in the softer surface of the brake pads. The result can be brake noise. Never use thinner or petroleum based solvents, they don’t do the job. Be sure that all metal to metal contact points of the brake pads are lubricated. Lastly, inspect the brake pad holders. With age, the holders wear and do not hold the brake pads correctly. This wear allows too much movement which will result in noise. The bottom line to preventing brake noise is quality parts proper inspection and preparation.

 
     
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