Brake Problems

[thecontainerdriver]

Hello all!

I had a few problems with a squeaky wheel this time last year. Adjusting the brakes didn't help and neither did new brake shoes. Eventually a new master cylinder sorted out the problem - until now!

The squeak is back. But this time I've also got another problem with the brakes. The rear brake lights don't come on brightly unless I press the pedal really hard. Pressing the pedal lightly, the brakes might come on dimly.

I know I could try changing the brake light switch, but that wouldn't sort the squeaky wheel out. Since the two problems have occurred at the same time, I'm presuming they're connected. To be honest, I'm concerned that there's some underlying problem with the pressure in the braking system that the new cylinder didn't sort out last year.

Anyone seen this before?

Cheers. All the best.

[mike.perry]

I think that the brake lights and squeak are a co incidence. Do you get the squeak if you jack up and spin each wheel?
Remove each drum, one at a time and check that the brake pistons are moving out when you press the brake pedal and returning when you lift off.
The brake shoes could be glazed
The brake light problem is likely to be the switch, short out the brake light switch with a paper clip or such to test the electrics, the brake lights should be on bright.
Random thoughts in a random order

[bmcecosse]

Maybe the drums just need cleaning out - and while in there check all the cylinders are free - and not leaking. I'm not sure how/why a new master cylinder solved the squeak before! And I agree - sounds like the switch contacts are corroded and since not accessible - new switch required.

[thecontainerdriver]

Thanks, both, I'll give all that a try. I'm not sure when I'll get round to it, though, with a new baby in the house! At least I can order the switch and then, er, leave it in its box on a shelf for a month!

All the best.