3500 brake problem

Butch 02 Denali · September 19, 2005

Just picked up a 99 3500 (OBS). It's got a severe left rear brake grab but only when cold. It's so bad that even lightly stepping on the brake will lock-up the left rear tire. Once it's driven for a very short time, the brakes are fine and it stops straight without any pulling. I already redid the fronts and am about to get into the back. Any ideas why they only grab when cold?

silverado3500 · October 6, 2005

Are all of the brakes grabby, or just one wheel? (also consider asking in the Heavy duty board. . You will get better responses there. no one will fault you for posting there )

Butch 02 Denali · October 24, 2005

Just the left rear grabs, then after one stop everythings ok and the brakes are normal. It's so bad that no matter how light the pedal is pushed, that wheel locks up.

Still haven't had time to tear into it, but plowing season is comming quick!

Mabey I will try on the HD board!

mmmikkke · October 27, 2005

Just the left rear grabs, then after one stop everythings ok and the brakes are normal. It's so bad that no matter how light the pedal is pushed, that wheel locks up.

Still haven't had time to tear into it, but plowing season is comming quick!

Mabey I will try on the HD board!

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I'd try dousing the brake shoes with CRC Brakleen. I'd also look at the seal on the bearing to see if it is leaking.

Could also be that the drum has been replaced, and it's rusting overnight, and that first press of the brake pedal is needed to clear off the rust. Could be a chinese brake drum.