Brakes are giving me a headache

[Alfonso Gomez]

My 87 Coupe does not have ABS. It was removed some time ago because the replacement was too expensive. I have rebuilt front calipers (from Corvette Central) and OEM pads. The master cylinder is 2 years old, the front discs are 4 years old.
My problem is that when I hit the brakes hard, the front right wheel locks up.
Both front brake hoses are new. Also, when the brakes are hot, the front right pads squeal like a stuck pig.
Before I take anything apart, what may be causig this condition? Wheel bearings?
Thank you.

 

[Vettelt193]

Is the front left brake working at all? it could be hung up, causing all the pressure to go to the front right. I would actually start the search there, check the pins and everything else to make sure it can freely float on the bracket, and that nothing else is causing it to bind.

Also, I assume that you did a full bleed when you put the new hoses on?

 

[Alfonso Gomez]

Is the front left brake working at all? it could be hung up, causing all the pressure to go to the front right. I would actually start the search there, check the pins and everything else to make sure it can freely float on the bracket, and that nothing else is causing it to bind.

Also, I assume that you did a full bleed when you put the new hoses on?

Yes, I will check both calipers.

 

[Moonunit 451]

Did you follow the correct bleeding process, it's different than old school. But I don't know if that's the case without the antilock. Did you buy rebuilt calipers or do it yourself? Defective parts are not all that uncommon.

 

[Ken]

I'm wondering if you need some sort of proportioning valve now that you've removed the ABS.

 

[SKIP780]

i just replaced some rear lines on my 93 and bled the whole system as per manual.all new fluid ran through and only the rite front locks up with ABS off.dont think there is a proportioning valve problem there (without the ABS unit).

 

[SKIP780]

maybe ive got a problem?i figured all wheels should lock up.but it works like it did before i replaced those brake lines so i figured thats how it is. if im wrong please tell me.

 

[Ken]

With ABS, the whole idea is for the brakes not to lock!

 

[taegdh]

As Ken said, the ABS was designed to keep the wheels from locking up. Since that has been by-passed, you've got to track down a few things.

As was stated before, you have to determine if you are getting pressure to the left front. You must also determine if your rears are working. IF SO are they equal side to side......

First, since you mentioned that the front discs were 4 years old, I would disassemble them and ensure they are properly lubricated and the pistons aren't seized, especially the Left Front, but you might as well do them all. I know it is a lot of dirty work, but you're talking safety, and your life on the line if you can't STOP. Consider replacing the pads at this time also, if the right front is squealing, you're probably down to the indicator prawl.

As previously iterated, you may have to invest in a proportioning valve to ensure the fronts have a bit more pressure than the rears, if the rears lock up before the fronts, the back end comes arround and you get to drive in reverse.......

Finally, replace ALL the fluid in your system, start at the right rear and work your way from the furthest to the nearest. Pump it all out and replace with fresh new fluid.....

I know its dirty job, but look at it as de-flowering a virgin.....