Intermittant binding front OS brake...

[Grimsqueaker]

Pedal goes stiff and the need to use the handbrake is negated.....

It was raised by Nationwide when it went in for MOT last year, so they did a brake service (whatever the hell that is, probably take the pads out, add copperslip and refit for a guess)

However, the issue has returned....

Has anyone else experienced this ?? ( the binding, not the brake service - lol )

[corkgsxr]

so pedal goes hard and front brakes are useless?

[Grimsqueaker]

the brakes are working fine, just that the pads are not releasing on the front OS disc...

but it is intermittent, which is what is confusing me

[corkgsxr]

i suppose first thing is get the caliper off and take a look at the condition of the pots, see are they moving freely

[jimbo]

I would check the calliper maybe try using a "G" clamp and winding the pistons in and out a few times, you need to check the pads have not overheated if they are worn I would replace them anyway ,if the calliper piston is tight/seized you may have to replace the calliper, if you are not sure best get a local garage to check it over.

[Grimsqueaker]

thanks guys

fingers crossed we will get some pleasant(ish) weather soon, and I will be able to investigate further

[corkgsxr]

I would check the calliper maybe try using a "G" clamp and winding the pistons in and out a few times, you need to check the pads have not overheated if they are worn I would replace them anyway ,if the calliper piston is tight/seized you may have to replace the calliper, if you are not sure best get a local garage to check it over.

why not rebuild it with new seals and pot (if damaged)

[Andy]

If the slave cylinder and caliper are moving in and out freely, then check the flexible pipe leading to the cylinder. They can deteriorate inside so the fluid doesn't flow back when the pedal is released (thereby maintaining pressure within the cylinder and causing the brake to remain on).

I've known this to happen on 2 cars, not being immediately diagnosed and costing each unfortunate driver a new wheel bearing through over-heating.

[Andre]

Three things worth checking,

See if your brake caliper/ wheel cylinder has seized
Check the handbrake mechanism is not incorrectly adjusted
Your master cylinder may be faulty.

[Grimsqueaker]

Not sure how handbrake adjustment is going to have an effect on the operation of the front OS brake...

I think, from the responses, that the most likely options are caliper issues OR brake line....

Could corrosion on the guide pins or bolts have an effect...