[jluetjen]

While the vibration problem you are describing could be tire related (such as the pick-up that you described), I kind of doubt it is the cause. My suspicion would be that you might have a bearing going on the left side, or else a tired bushing somewhere on the left.

The pick-up that you described on the front tires sounds sort normal to me, but it would be hard to say for sure without looking at a picture.

As far as the brakes going soft, I would bleed the brakes and see if it improves at all. You might also want to inspect your brake lines to see if there is any distortion or degradation of the lines. If they are old, they might be going soft from the sudden excercise. Check the fluid coming out when you bleed the brakes, is it clear or not? Also check the fluid inside the resevoir prior to bleeding the system. Is it clear or cloudy? If it is cloudy, your master cylinder may be on its last legs.

Regarding the brake pads, did you bed them in per the manufacturers directions?