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Brakes on 04 Ram


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zamora209
New User

Jan 26, 2010, 4:47 AM

Post #1 of 2 (1255 views)
Brakes on 04 Ram Sign In

I'm new here and I had a problem that I was wondering if someone could help me with.

I have a 2004 Dodge ram 1500 Hemi (my baby) that I was letting my step son drive to school.Apparently the truck has been needing the front right brake pad for about a month now and I am just now being informed. Now the kid didn't want to dish out some money to replace the brake pads so he
continued to use the vehicle for about a month to get from and back to school so he says.At first the sound it was making when he applied the brake was just a squeeky sound,but as time went it became a grinding sound,along with vibration.(indicating Metal on metal contact).(now this makes me really angry) He continued to use the vehicle for about two more weeks.Until yesterday when the grinding became less loud,but more high pitched,almost like a "jet engine".

As he approached a stop light he noticed he had to apply a lot of pressure to the brake pedal,and It became very soft and mushy.On the dash the ABS and Brake light promptly turned on.the truck is now parked for good until I can fix the problem.

I don't know much about cars but I am able to tell I'll need to be replacing the front pads,and at least one new rotor.What I am scared of is that the kid did some expensive to repair damage to the truck.So my question is, from what I just described can anyone make an educated guess at to what else might be damaged,what will I have to repair? Costs? This is a major headache for me and I am seeking opinions on the net before I go to a shop.

Ps. apparently only the front right brake pad was making the sounds.

(hyperlink removed only)


(This post was edited by Tom Greenleaf on Jan 26, 2010, 7:57 AM)


DanD
Veteran / Moderator
DanD profile image

Jan 26, 2010, 7:19 AM

Post #2 of 2 (1249 views)
Re: Brakes on 04 Ram Sign In

What has likely happened (from your description) the brake pad(s) metal backer has likely worn/ground so thin; that the caliper’s piston has extended past the seal and blown out the brake fluid.
Not a lot more expense; calipers are relatively inexpensive and not very labour intensive to replace.
If this is the case I would suggest replacing both calipers, both rotors along with the new brake pads. You’ll get better service out of the brakes, if it starts off all being fresh.
Just be happy the kid could get the thing stopped and not hurt anyone or thing.
I know you didn’t ask this; but you implied at who’s at fault here; kind of a tossup isn’t it?

Dan.

Canadian "EH"










 
 
 






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