Getting a noise from the rear wheel on the drivers side. Similar to a low pitch squel you would hear on a regular car when the metal safety lets you know you need new brake pads .... only problem is the Jag doesn't have those (I don't believe) and there is still plenty of life left on the pad. I did use some CRC Brake Cleaner on the rotor, turning it as I sprayed it but no change (I didn't take the pads off).

The squel is there most of the time .... except at very low speeds (15 mph or less) or when I first take it out. After about 5 or 10 minutes of driving the noise starts.

Let me know if this "rings a bell" with anyone.

Thanks -
JamesJag

 

Pop out the rear brake pads , clean out the dust from the caliper and the pads. Start up your air compressor and blow the heck out of the caliper area.

 

...and relube the caliper guide pins (the ones you unbolted to get access to the pads)

 

Thanks .... this might be a stupid question but do I need to remove the caliper to get at the pads? I thought I may have read somewhere that you didn't but I'm thinking you do. If I do, any chance I can blow them out without removing. As you can tell I'm a little hesistant removing it - though I've change brakes on regular cars before

JamesJag

 

You should not have to remove the calipers. And lube up the pins that hold in the pads.

 

correct, just the pins need removed and you can take out the pads. Putting new pads in may require loosening the bleed screw and retracting the piston to get you some room for the new ones. Easy job, one of the first projects on this car I tackled. Its intimidating the first time, but don't be.

 

Well ..... after much tinkering, its not the brakes. Started out by just cleaning them (no change), replaced the pads (no change), got the rotors cut (no change).

What's next on the list

 

You didn't mention you lubed the caliper pins.

It very well may be the bearing. Its pricey to get replaced. At this point, I'd take it to an indy shop and tell them what you've done to diagnose it, and see if they can source the problem by getting it up on a lift and rotating the wheel. (hopefully fast enough to hear it)

 

Thanks - I definately lubed the guide pins. After getting the rotors cut I only drove it about a mile or so and was frustrated when I still heard the noise. Today I drove it to work (had radio on and was trying NOT to listen for it - needed a morning without thinking about what it might be). On the way home I pulled the emergency brake up while moving (not going very fast but not too slow) just to make sure it wasn't hanging up or thinking the emergency brake shoes might be causing it - by the way the emergency brake shoes looked OK but not what I would consider to be in great condition. Well, I haven't heard the noise since (though it was just a few miles). But prior to that I was hearing it all the time. So I got my fingers crossed. Tomorrow will be the true test. I'll let you know how I make out.

In any case, I appreciate you sticking with me.

 

I actually started typing up something about the e-brake shoes...but if it isn't happening at low speeds, I didn't think you'd hear them at higher ones. I'm always insterested in hearing how problems are solved, just in case the next member needs directions to similar symptoms. here's hopein....