Date:         Thu, 14 May 1998 15:41:14 EDT
Reply-To:     GMBulley <GMBulley@AOL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         GMBulley <GMBulley@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Birdlike Brake Noises
Comments: To: c455ssl@SEMOVM.SEMO.EDU, Vanagon@VANAGON.COM
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII

In a message dated 98-05-14 10:31:42 EDT, c455ssl@SEMOVM.SEMO.EDU writes:

<< I have traced a "chirping" sound to the right front brakes--activated by
 bumps in the road, and more recently when applying the brakes.
 Is this something that can be fixed by a well-placed squirt of lithium
 grease(not on the pads)? >>

 No. It is a result of the pads vibrating in their calipers. It is a very high
pitched vibration, like a finger on the moist rim of a glass, so  it sounds
like a squeak.

There are special anti-rattle clips/metal gizmos that are to be replaced at
brake pad service intervals, but sometimes are left out, reinstalled (old
ones), or ignored. Replace these clips, and the sound will cease.

Also, there are some aftermarket goops and gizmos that are supposed to help,
but in my opinion, if you are going to rip your brakes apart to install some
goop, you might as well go to the dealer and get the real deal, and instal the
clips.

gmbulley
cary, nc