One last..... easier and simpler idea.

If the calipers are > 10 years old, simply remove them and replace them along with the hoses that lead to the frame (3). Last time I replaced these calipers, they were around $30 each. I think I paid $15-$19 for each hose.

Nothing nicer than having all new parts to work with....



BTW, there were 2 different style of hoses used on these axles. You must look carefully at your hoses where they mount to the top of the axle housing. Make sure you order the correct ones. Mine were the ones with the flat plates welded on the bottom of them. The plates "align" the hose orientation on the top of the axle pad which it mount on. The parts stores always ordered me the wrong ones until I figured out that I had to "identify" in their picture catalog which ones were correct.

We're thinking of ya !

 

I feel your pain! These brakes are not unique they are just brakes. BUT I agree with whoever posted the engineers had some good bud to smoke that day they designed the system, or had a sick idea to make future owners go nuts working on them. Look real close at the rear brake cyl. I've seen them suck air around the plunger rubber on an old chevy before, drove me to the point of nearly beating my head on the floor. The cyl was dry but it would suck air. I changed them out and re-bled then I had great brakes. SO many gremlins to drive ya nuts!

 

I've seen that too on a 1st gen. Had one wheel cylinder that did not leak fluid, but seemed to ingest air when it was under low pressure and kept having air come out during the bleeding process. I know the air wasn't entering around the bleeder screw's threads as I had them "sealed" with silicone brake lubricant. Replaced the wheel cylinder and the problem cleared up immediately. I would suggest trying a new set of wheel cylinders for the small cost involved.

 

I'm leaving to go back to Lynchburg for school tomorrow. It's in my Dads more than capable hands now. The only reason I was working on it was because he works nightshift at the moment. More than likely its going to get all new brake parts all the way around at a local garage, which probably isn't a bad Idea as they are all either factory parts or 15 + yrs old, other than the shoes and pads. I will let you all know what he finds out. Thanks for all the help!

 

You All Will Not, I repeat NOT Believe This...

The day after I leave to come back to school, my Father got in the truck, cranked it up and drove it home, the brakes worked perfectly. Solid pedal, stopped much better than before. The only thing is, nobody touched the truck after I left... I am completely baffled as to how that happened, he didn't work on it, and didn't take it to a mechanic. My only conclusion is that maybe some air worked its way out of the lines through the master cylinder? But what do I know. The good news is, I have a truck that fixes itself! ( kinda!) lol Once again thank you guys so much for your help!

 

The last time I heard of a chrysler product "fixing itself", the owner was found dead inside......


Good luck, man !

 

You must have the inverse Midas touch.

 

Catch it bottle it and sell that magic!! Glad to hear the gremlins moved out!!

 

I'm still baffled, but hey I'm not complaining!