hi,

I think my brakes have started binding for some reason... oil temp is higher and the wheels (mainly nearside front) feels/smells v.hot, even after a short run

Any suggestions on what to check, look for etc?

ta,
Matt

 

mattski2

is it sliding calipers or opposed pistons?

with sliding calipers, check that the sliding bit does actually slide as the rods are prone to stick in the bushes - brake pressure puts the pads in contact with the discs but they stick there and don't release, hence warm & whiffy . can stick due to either muck or rust. might be able to clean up slides with emery paper but if badly corroded, possibly better giving them a coat of new

opposed pistons should be less prone to sticking but it's worth seeing if they're sticking / adjusted correctly to give the right pad to disc clearance when the brakes are off (dunno actual figues)

for both types, check the piston seals are ok and not split etc which can let in muck etc

a few ideas to start with...

Apple

 

I came on looking for help with an identical problem as I am having a lousy weekend of car trouble.
The calipers on my 93 WRX are sliding and it is clear that the outer pad is much more heavily worn than the inner. In fact I am struggling to get the slider to move.
Clearly a clean up would help but what's the best approach as it is very badly worn and I would like to get to the garage on Wednesday for its service.
Can I safely remove the sliders and clean them and then replace without too much trouble ?

 

weird... I stripped them down and cleaned up the calipers using copper grease etc etc and they are absolutely fine now... couldn't see anything obvious disk-wise as to what could be the cause... fine now tho

M