Premature Brake Rotor wear??( '90 E150)

I replaced the rotors and pads on my '90 E150 van about 3 months ago, using Pep Boys "Prostop" pads & their Chinese rotors.

I'm not new to this, having been driving and repairing E150's for over 20 years, always using "aftermarket" rotors, originally JCWhitney, and in the past few years Pep Boys. And I always clean the "pin" v-grooves and apply a tiny bit of DB grease to them. Have never had a problem.

Today I had to fix a flat on the rt front, and noticed the outer pad was quite worn and the inner somewhat less, and the outer rotor face noticeably scored.

Is this me, or has Pep Boys gotten a bad or cheaper batch of rotors? Or brake pads with some crap in them (melamine perhaps??)

Has anyone else had this problem?

Tom G.

Reply to
tom42
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Sounds more like a sticking caliper.

Reply to
Marlin Singer

I'm glad you said that. I did think the same possibility.

They need testing. The OP may have one side stuck.

Reply to
Oren

Reply to
tom42

Reply to
tom42

I have had a number of F & E series over the last 30 years. All had front brake problems of one sort or another. Had more than one with caliper problems. 2 things I would check to start would be to make sure you have installed the locking pins in the right direction. They seem to have a wide and narrow side after use if not when new. Reversing a used pin will add tension and make the caliper more difficult to slide and release as it should.

Next would be to examine the hoses very carefully for any indication of damage, bulging of the exterior cover, cracking or any other defect. Bulging is an indication that the inner liner is perferated and leaking which may cause the fluid to become trapped in the caliper instead of returning to the MC when the brake is released. This can also lead to brake overheating and, darting or pulling when the brakes are applied. Depending of your favorite parts source, new hose are available for under $40US for the pair. I recommend this anyway if yours are the original hoses. You may as well throw a new one in the rear while you are at it.

Make sure the piston is not tight or seized. Kits are available to rebuild them down very inexpensively if there is any doubt. Inexpensive rebuilt calipers are also plentiful. This is the way to go if you are not familiar with caliper rebuild. They can be had with steel or phenolic pistons. Each has an advantage. Either can stich if the dust shield is damage allowing moisture in to cause bore corrosion.

You should also do a complete flush of the system. Brake fluid tends to absorb moisture as it ages which may lead to internal corrosion of the system which can also cause uneven cylinder/caliper operation.

Lugnut

Reply to
lugnut

I forgot to mention, this condition existed on both sides.

I had no problem compressing the pistons and then installing new NAPA pads. Hoses and all looked good. I will keep a close eye on these pads as they wear.

The brakes feel fine; no pulling to one side or anything else. If I didn't change the tire, I'd never have noticed.

Thanks, guys, for all the tips.

Reply to
tom42

It's me! I would take the truck on a lone/remote road. Accelerate with a sudden braking.

Just testing...

Reply to
Oren

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