Date:         Fri, 5 Apr 2002 17:35:05 -0600
Reply-To:     Chuck Hill <hilltech@NETINS.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Chuck Hill <hilltech@NETINS.NET>
Subject:      Brake problem
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

I'm having a problem with the front brakes on an '86 Vanagon that I
can't explain.  The brakes drag seriously hard on the front only and the
pads and discs get very hot in a 1/2 mile drive.  Like when I put my
infra-red remote temperature sensor, it's off the readable range in a
drive of this distance.  The van will only pull about 50 mph with full
throttle.

The problem doesn't change when I disconnect the vacuum line for the
brakes back in the engine compartment.  Both front calipers seem equally
affected, and the temperatures are about equal if I only drive it a
couple of blocks and then check.

I've never heard of a problem like this coming from the brake
proportioning valve, but I'm wondering if this is it?  What else could
it be?  I'm thinking that the master cylinder plumbing is such that the
right front and left rear brakes activate off one half and the rest from
the other part.  Bently doesn't show the brake hydraulic circuit, that
I'm aware of.

So, I'm stumped, and asking for help.  please.  pretty please.

Chuck Hill