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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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