Brake helpl needed! why wont my brakes release following brake job?

jmazillo · 04-10-2008, 06:49 AM

Hi and thanks!
I have repllaced my front rotors and pads for the first time and have run into an issue being that following the first pedal depression the brakes won't release.
When I installed the rotor and new pads everything went on smooth with minimal force. The new pads slipped in very easy.
I completed both fronts, hopped into the car and pumped the brake a couple and tried to move the car and in felt like the brakes were 'on'.
I took the wheel off to inspect, the rotor was super tight and wasn't spining. I wacked it with a rubber mallet a couple times and the rotor worked itself free again. I checked the fluid, even removed a mall amount.
Popped the whell back on and same issue; after the firt pedal depression it seems like the callipers wont let go of the rotor.

Any suggestions or guidance will be most appreciated!!
Thanks
James
jmazillo@magbank.com

Bill Verburg · Bill Verburg's Garage

Does this happen at just 1 wheel? or both fronts? or all 4?

davisriley · 04-10-2008, 11:22 AM

If it's just 1, I think I would have to guess corrosion under spring plates. If it's more than that, or all four, I don't know. More info?

john walker's workshop · 04-11-2008, 08:00 AM

maybe a caliper piston that's stuck in it's bore. maybe a rubber hose that's old and swollen internally enough to block the return flow of fluid. exercise the pistons one at a time by removing one pad, pumping the pedal 2-3 times, pry the piston back in, repeat several times, reinstall the pad and then do the other one. opening the bleeder just a bit will allow pressure to release if it's a clogged hose. be sure there is a bit of freeplay in the brake pedal pushrod also.

cjoenck · 04-14-2008, 08:31 AM

When you installed the rotors and pads, I assume you cleaned the calipers well with brake cleaner to get the old pad dust out? Sorry if I am stating the obvious but dust build-up can be an issue.
Did you install the dampers as well when you replaced the pads?

colo964 · 04-14-2008, 08:12 PM

Check the return spring on the pedal. THere is an allen socket for an adjustment.

Could the carpet be binding your pedal?

cjoenck · 04-15-2008, 09:12 AM

One more thought - when you removed the calipers to install the rotors, did you open the brake lines, i.e disconnect brake line from caliper? If you did not and just moved them out of the way, check your brake lines for any damage and kinks that might restrict fluid flow. Btw, what pads are you using?