Thanks Mark.
I checked both front calipers for seizing. Once the brakes are released, the hubs turned
freely which should mean the hoses are also OK. I also checked the wheel bearings for
play and there was no movement or grinding.
Both rotors were checked for run out with a deflection gauge and found to be out
approximately .002 thousand at the edge (when cold) which is near OEM specs, granted
zero is optimal. The lug nuts were properly torqued. The truck does not wonder when you
let the wheel go.
The frustration was mounting… I learned the rotor/brake pad distributor was now offering
installation, so I took the truck in and strongly suggested the rotors were defective, having
done dozens of brake jobs over the years. My working theory at this point was the rotors
were of poor quality metal and warping as soon as they heated up.
The mechanic took the truck out for diagnosis and thought the rear brakes were the
problem. Tired of the vibration and realizing the amount of work involved with removing
rusted rear rims, rotors, pads and hardware and dealing with the emergency brake
assembly in 95 degree weather, I agreed to bring the truck in.
The mechanic came back and stated one rear caliper was seizing and this was the
problem. Although skeptical, I agreed to have this replaced along with the rotors and pads.
The truck is now fine…all vibration is gone and braking is back to day one.
Lessons learned: While my, wife, girlfriend, mechanically inclined friends, drinking buddies
and myself were all were convinced this was a front brake issue-it was in fact a rear brake
issue, rear brake vibrations travel through the frame and can manifest themselves as a
front brake problem. I should have inspected the all wheels and would have found the
problem.
Cheers, Rick
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