Hot wheels

graeme thompson · Post by **graeme thompson** » Thu Jun 08, 2006 13:30

If I remember correctly there was a thread on here recently about front wheels getting hot. Last night after some enthusiastic driving I noticed that my left rear wheel was very hot compared to the other three. Can anyone remember the thread and would the cause be a sticking caliper or something more sinister? Any thoughts would be appreciated before I embark on more open wallet surgery.

keitht · Post by **keitht** » Thu Jun 08, 2006 14:02

It probably is a sticking brake caliper, it may not be noticable when you are driving - (sticking front calipers tend to drag the steering as the brakes are applied).
Sometimes a vibration may be felt through the brakes (pedal) if a caliper is sticking seriously.

Keitht.

tonypoll · Post by **tonypoll** » Fri Jun 09, 2006 08:46

Rear wheel bearings are a known weak point. You may want to check this is the brake calipers seems OK.

graeme thompson · Post by **graeme thompson** » Fri Jun 09, 2006 13:33

Thanks guys,problem seems to be the caliper from further investigation.Is this something that can be fixed at home (I have limited mechanical ability!) or is it one for the specialist.

Steve C · Post by **Steve C** » Fri Jun 09, 2006 14:04

Is it a sticky piston or a sticky slide pin?

The slide pins can normally be cleaned up / greased without needing any parts. If the piston is sticky you will need a seal kit, possibly a piston and be comfortable bleeding the brakes ...

Mutley · Post by **Mutley** » Fri Jun 09, 2006 16:29

Graeme,

First thing is to remove the two caliper bolts & carefully lift the caliper out for inspection caring not to damage the hose. If you can get someone to gently depress the brake pedal so the pistons come our further than they would if they were on the car, you can inspect for damage. This in itself may free up the jam. You will probaby need a sturdy piece of wood to lever the calipers back.

I suspect it will be the 'sliders' though which can be exposed & cleaned fully by removing the two smaller bolts.

Word of caution - I wrecked two spanners & one socket getting the caliper off. You may be lucky but I bought a six sided socket which helped alot.
Rest assured if I can service Excel brakes anyone can - just be careful with the hose

Regards, Andrew

Steve C · Post by **Steve C** » Fri Jun 09, 2006 16:38

I had a really strange problem - I couldn't bleed a rear caliper - it turned out that the caliper bleed nipple had filled up with muck because the cover had fallen off / perished. I had to remove the bleed screw completely and clean it up with a small drill.

Remember to take a good look at the hoses ... anything slightly dodgy, just replace them - preferably with braided hoses!