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Re: slipping brake pads (archive)

[ Follow Ups ] [ 5-series (E28) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Posted by Mark Grady on October 14, 2000 at 20:55:43:

In Reply to: slipping brake pads posted by Iain McAdams on October 14, 2000 at 17:59:49:


My 1987 535i has had a brake problem since I bought it 8 months ago, and I think I may have to take it in to the dealer for repairs, since nothing has worked. Most people don't even understand my description of this problem.

When I hit the brakes to slow down, especially at slower speeds, there's a loud shimmying noise from the front rotors, that feels like the pads are slipping all over the rotors. Besides the disturbing noise, it detracts from the braking power.

I have replaced the upper and lower control arms, center link, and idler arm, and tightened up the steering box, to no avail. The front suspension has since been aligned. Also, there are no leaks in the power steering/brake booster system.

The front bearings grind when I spin the wheels by hand. And, the rotors and pads are cheap. And, when I replaced those, I didn't return the little allen-bolt to the rotor, since someone told me those are just used to keep the rotors on the axle on the assembly line. These may be the problem?...

My repairs have tightened up the steering a bit, but have made no difference to this braking problem. Any ideas, or solutions, would make a huge difference, and would be much appreciated!

Thanks, iain

Sounds like warped rotors and/or badly worn wheel bearings. Either one of these conditions would lead to front wheel shimmy. The little allen bolt shouldnt matter since the rotors will be held in place by the wheel lug nuts.

hope this helps

mark grady

ex 81 528i
current 85 535i



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