I am on holiday in New England (Vermont) very far from home and today had a strange noise occur. Driving at about 50mph |I would hear an occasional squeak from the rear of the car. Like something just barely touching a rotating part , now and then. This became more frequent and then turned into a sound like a bad brake shoe rubbing against a brake drum. It stopped suddenly so I figured that i had picked up a bit of road debris ( small rock maybe ) between disc and backing plate or something. Then later when slowing down ( no brake applied ) I got the same noise only worse. I stopped but can see noting obviously wrong. I drove again and this time the car gave a small jolt and the grinding noise started again. I slowed and stopped and it went away. Any ideas on what this might be? The rear end has new fluid and does not leak. The trans is working perfectly. The wheel bearing were fine when checked over the winter. Im in a hotel in the back woods of Vermont and its almost the American 4th of July so im a bit nervous

 

Maybe check the handbrake. Perhaps it is on a notch or two, or is stuck slightly.

 

Was thinking that. Drove around in circles in hotel parking lot and managed to get the sound to happen once. It seems to be LHS and sounds like its from the brakes.....but does not sound like a bad pad. Any body knows what is the WORST thing that could happen if I keep going ? I really dont care if I wear out the handbrake on one side

 

I suggest you take it to muffler/brake shop (Midas,etc.) for a free inspection. Best to get it up in the air and take a look. Costs nothing but time.

Home is too far away to be taking chances.

 

^^ What he said....

 

There is a chance that you a: caught something in between the pad and rotor or b: the pad itself is loose- I have had both happen.

 

Got it up on a ramp at local Midas. Left rear wheel bearing is bad. There was no whine or any other signs. Getting it replaced at local indy shop.

 

Wow, there seems to be a rash of these. Might be time to check mine out !

 

Ebay bearings are questionable . Better off getting brand name bearings from a known good source . Inspect the cavity the bearing sits into on the hub assembly for damage as the bearing failed ..

 

Bearings are from a local parts dealer

 

Glad you got it sorted and it was nothing too serious or complicated. Enjoy the rest of your holiday!

 

Sorted in record time too. Local indy got the parts rushed in and finished the job at 16:30 today. The shop usually closes at 16:00 on July 3 but the mechanic said that he knew I was on holiday and did not want me to be stuck in a hotel with no wheels on July 4th. I am a happy man. Cost was reasonable too IMO $430 usd

On the road again tomorrow

 

Great resolution to a troubling glitch in your holiday. Enjoy!

Granville

 

Sounds pretty reasonable - and a bargain - considering the great service you received. Happy 4th!