Expert: Van - 8/30/2005

Question
I have a 1997 Chevy 1500 Suburban with 100,000 miles on it.  The problem is the brakes stick especially when warm.  I can still drive the vehicle but it tends to pull towards the side it is sticking on.  It is normally the right front side that sticks the hardest.  I replaced the seals on the calipers thinking that was the problem but it only cured it for awhile.  This problem causes the brakes to get very warm and smoke sometimes.  Please advise.

Thanks
Blake

Answer
Hi Blake,
I have had the same problem on older models that turned out to be the flexable hoses from the frame to the caliper.
There is a clamped on sleeve where the hose is attached to the spindle. The hose breaks down inside, and the rubber pieces will get jammed in that area, and not let the fluid through. You can force it through and apply the brakes, but it may not return, and release the brakes.
One way to check for that, is apply the brakes with the engine running, and then right after releasing the pedal, maybe a second later, crack the bleeder screw on the caliper, and see if there is still pressure. You can even jack up the wheel, to see if it is holding the brakes applied after the pedal is released.

Van