QuestionI'm a shade tree mechanic and have kept my (2) cars on the road with a minimum of shop work. My first was a Dodge Colt that lasted 15yrs before I couldn't depend on it anymore with the number of failures. My current '88 240 DL has 130K on it.
I have a noise that seems to come from the driver's side rear end.
The sound is a dragging sound like plastic on pavement. I hear it predominately when I'm rolling or starting off. It is intermittent but is now happening most every time I drive and seems to be getting worse and more frequent. I note that the sound gets louder when there is pressure on the driver's side as when making a right hand turn.
I'm suspecting something in the driver's side parking brake.
If this is a sticking parking brake, can it occur on just one side and is there a way to blow some lubricant into it to clean and loosen the mechanism?
Are there other suspects?
Thank you.
AnswerHello Thomas,
The noise you hear could well be brake related...most often it relates to emergency brake hardware that has rusted or become damaged...most often the mini-brake shoes that actually operate the E-brake are worn and the related hardware is rusted and needs replacement or cleaned and lubed well.
Raise car and be sure car is secure on blocks or jackstands....start car put car in drive...listen to noise..Start disassembling the l/rear wheel...remove caliper and disc..be certain that the E-brake cables are able to move freely..if not replace it...remove ALL parts and clean and use silicone based grease for lubing parts...this job will come out well...if you are thorough and patient ...remember to unadjust brake cables as they relate to hand control lever..remove cover between seats and you'll understand...slide seats far forward..to access screws that secure cover to E-brake housing..in rear area..
Also..other noises ...U-joints make noise...when they're failing.
Happy motoring,
Bilbo
