The Dodge Challenger Message Board

Hey guys, looks like I have a problem with my brakes somewhere. Guess I already found the problem too but anyway, here it goes.

First the problem; when I drive around and have to brake suddenly (not putting the brakepedal to the metal but more like regular braking) the right rear brake locks the wheel so the tire smokes like during a very short burnout. But it feels like if this happen the other brakes doesn't do anything! It brakes like shit when the above happens. Not really safe driving this way.

As for the other brakes not doing their job, when I apply the linelock on the front wheels they keep the car perfectly standing still so the front brakes are just as good as always.

- all brakes are bleeded and adjusted as it should
- brake shoes are thick enough (rear) or just new (front)
- brake lines in front are just new

Now what I think causes the problem is the following. My rear axle leaks a little bit (through the gasket where the axle meets the housing) of fluid on that right rear wheel. Maybe it could be dripping some into the drum which make the brake locking up? Normally I would think oil makes it just more slippery but you never know...

Any thoughts...

Your suspicion is correct.

Oil or brake fluid contamination on the brake pads does not make then 'slippy' as you might expect but will make them snach on hard.

Getting the oil out of the shoes is a problem. A blow torch or a hot oven might burn it out. Best way is new shoes AND KEEP THEM CLEAN AND DRY!

Have you got an adjustable brake proportional valve? I ask because you do not mention it. You should have one to get the brake balance right. Esp. with larger rear tyres.

Thanks Dave.

Now it's time to replace that gasket and cause of that the brake shoes

Even if I get oily finger marks on my brake shoes I rub them off with sandpaper. You could try that on yours if it is just on the surface.
But if the oil has soaked right into the material it is better to replace them.