Rolling Resistance on Front Wheels

[locovaca]

So, I just completed my tranny maintenance. While I had the truck up on the jack stands and was waiting for the parts I decided to check my front pads and rotors. They're nearing replacement but are still good for a while. However, something I noticed is that my front wheels have an awfully large resistance to turning them. I know on my FWD cars the rear wheels will spin quite a bit if they're left dangling without the brakes applied. These were no where close- in fact, I would say the rears were almost easier to turn (with the tranny in neutral) than the fronts!

I'm assuming that this isn't right. I don't think the brakes are locking up, but I'm going to replace those in a couple of months anyway. I don't necessarily think the bearings are bad, but I might as well replace those when I have the brakes replaced, right? Anything else that I might check?

 

[cocoasranger]

If I had a 93 with original calipers and was replacing the pads and rotors, I would spring for the extra $60.00 per pair and put on new calipers which are one of the least pricey calipers around. Sometimes when you retract the pistons for new pads that have old calipers they will seize or bind.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

i would replace the rubber hoses going to the calipers as well as a deteriorating hose can hold pressure to the caliper and cause them to drag.

 

[koldcustoms]

The problem could be the flexible lines to the callipers. They could developed a bulge on the inside, pinching off the return route. Every time you use the brake, it forces more fluid into the calliper then what is able to flow out. As unlikely as it sounds, it's not uncommon. If they are original, it might be wise to replace these lines anyway.

Inspect the plumbing from the callipers to the master cylinder. Road debris could easily hit a line and pinch it off. Also, be sure to clean and lube your slider/split pins when you replace your brakes.