Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
I have a 98 Ford Econoline E-250.
I have replaced the FRONT brake components many times with satisfactory results, up to about a year ago. Since then I have had to replace the rotors twice, the calipers three times and the pads several times. Something is hanging up causing the pads to remain tightly against the rotors. Even after sitting all night, I can
jack it up and the brakes are still too tight.
I don't believe it's the master cylinder, the problem would be more obvious, based on my previous experience with other Ford vans.
Any way with no use overnight, the brakes are still tight and bleeding shows no pressure on the
pads. Could it be that the calipers I'm buying are lacking in the ability to retract themselves?
Any other solutions?
Thanks,
Marvin Martin
P.S. I also properly cleaned and lubricated all the moving parts with no difference.
Answer -
Hi,
Well - you aren't going to like the answer but I have a lot of personal experience with the same thing. The problem is the parts. I had fit problems, rotors that get chewed up by the pads and pads that would last 3 months.
The only real solution is to go buy geniune Ford parts - both the calipers, rotors, seals (if any are used) and pads. If you do this your problem will probably stop. I know it's expensive but the aftermarket parts just aren't as good of quality anymore when it comes to Ford brake parts.
Try www.fordpartsonline.com for a place that gives substancial discounts to all of us - not just dealers. The guy there is named Sam. He's easy to work with, very helpful and will sell you parts for less than any other Ford dealer will.
If you haven't changed calipers before - make sure you know what you're doing. You must replace both copper washers that seal the hose to the new caliper. Some Ford calipers don't come with them - you may need to buy them separately. Make sure you do not reuse the old ones. The brake fluid will leak if you do that. Make sure you bleed the brakes after you replace calipers so you get all air out of the lines.
Dennis
Thanks Dennis!
I have already resolved that I should buy better parts,however, since O'Reilly's was willing to replace the rotors and calipers at my insisting
that THEIR calipers were to blame, I accepted and installed their free replacements. The calipers are store brand but rotors are Wagner.
I just need to know, before I replace them, My front end man says
the caliper should pull back or spring back from the rotor enough as long as the fluid is not holding pressure against them. Is this accurate?
I'd just like to say, I've always shared your opinion on genuine Ford
parts VS aftermarket. I've just gone cheap for economics(doesn't work)
and have been willing to provide the labor if I can get lifetime warantees.
But it is just not worth it. I'm no mechanic, but have driven well over
a million miles, done most of my own repairs, and never encountered this much problem.
Thanks again, Dennis
Marvin Martin
AnswerThe answer to your question about the caliper retraction is "slightly" There is no suction that causes this. The spinning wheels and the slight misalignment in the brake assembly is the main reason the caliper doesn't push against the rotors all the time. It backs off just barely enough to allow wheel spin because the spinning wheels have more force than a brake caliper does when you arent pressing the peddle.
