I have 2001 F-350 CrewCab, 4x4, LB DRW, 7.3 PSD with 33600 miles. Recently I was stopping from 35mph and while pressing the brake pedal heard the rear brakes grinding. [This was not a high speed or short distance stop]. Then, the brake pedal went to floor. I slammed the parking park and veered to the left to avoid rear ending the car in front of me. Prior to this incident, I never heard the rear brakes grinding or had any other indication the rear brakes were worn.
My questions. 1) Since Ford brake system design uses a front bias, 85 % of braking is from front disc brakes, 15% from rear drums, why didn't my front brakes, which are in great shape, stop me during this incident? 2) Why did the brake pedal hit the floor? I checked the fluid level and its normal. I drove the truck to a parking lot and break line pressure felt normal again, however, the grinding persisted.
I had the truck towed to a Ford service center for repair. They offered an answer or two along with a pretty significant bill. While the truck is still under warranty, they said that worn brakes caused the damage and wear items like brake pads are not covered. I'm not sure I buy their answer on why the front brakes didnt stop me which is why I'm asking in this forum. Anyone have thoughts on this? Thanks Brent