I just replaced all four calipers and rotors on my 2003 TL type S. I did this because the passenger rear caliper froze completely, so it was time to do all 4. Now, the new caliper in the passenger rear is freezing. What could be the problem?

 

I would suspect an issue with the lines. It's the same caliper as before that froze. Assuming you installed correctly (since the other 3 were fine), the problem is probably upstream.

 

When you replaced the caliper/s did you replace the slider pins? and make sure they werent sticking in the brackets? Did you grease them? That is the most common reason calipers freeze and hang up.

 

did you prefill the calipers with new brake fluid--burping them so `lubricant` was inside when you started the bleeding procedure?

on bleeding- what method? machine vacuum, or pressure, or 1 man tool, or buddy did the pedal pump and hold method with you?
You know the TL has a special bleed order? - driver front then clockwise around the car
LF RF RR LR

and ck the install- torque is easily exceeded on those bolts- is a very low spec on the rear calipers

The slider plates must be cleaned underneath, on caliper bracket-
the slider plate itself `shiny new clean` and gently lubed with caliper grease
and a dab on the end tabs of the pads- where they slide across those plates

 

so it looks like a bearing problem. I assumed all the heat on the rotor was being generated from the new caliper, but it seems like the hub or middle part of the rotor is what's getting hot, not the outer portion that the pads apply pressure to. Any idea how much a bearing replacement would cost?

 

2003 TL type S--any idea what a mechanic should charge me to replace a bearing? I think its a bearing because the rotor is getting super hot near the middle (not where the pads apply pressure).

 

More than you should pay.... Have you thought about doing it yourself? There is a great write-up by an awesome guy on here that is very detailed.

Give it a shot.

 

Do failing bearings make a clicking noise when driving forward
or is that a rock in the tire?

 

do it yourself? Its pretty easy.

 

Its been a while since I did my wheel bearings so I dont quite remember. i do know that if you jack the car up and rotate the wheels by hand you will hear a metal on metal grinding.

Replacing the bearings was such a big benefit in ride quality.

 

If you just replaced your calipers you can change your bearing. Its one bolt that holds it on the rear.

As for "you think" do you hear a hum noise while driving? That is the typical bearing noise.

ALSO, the rear brakes on the TL have a drum style parking brake. If parking brake isnt adjusted properly it may be slightly touching causing the friction heat you are feeling.

 

Threads merged

 

Hi everyone--
I recently replaced all four calipers and rotors because my right rear wheel was smoking. Now the car is still dragging and the rotor gets super hot towards the middle even after a short drive. I think that the parking brake could be on/out of alignment in that one wheel. Is there a way to adjust those parking brake pads or something to fix this situation? thanks in advance

 

Have you deduced that it is infact the parking brake? Have you taken the caliper off that wheel and spun the hub to see if it spins freely?

Why do you think you have something hanging up? Just because you feel heat?