Grinding

[AlTroakex]

Today I notices something which looks like brake dust and fluid on the outside of the wheel, and that my brake lights have stopped working. Also when the car is slowing ( not necessarily when braking) that the rear axle seems to be grinding with every full turn. Could these all be connected?

Thanks, Al.

[MarkyB]

I'd investigate which ever brake appears to have the problem
The brake lights are probably a separate issue.

[chesney]

So it's not just when braking? Could be the shoe(s) are down to the rivets, causing grinding. The brake lights are completely unrelated, wiring/switch issue. If a standard car, hard to see how any brake dust sees the outside of the wheel, due to the hubcap and brake drum etc. Is this dust stuff on all wheels? If brake fluid is leaking it would have to leak a lot to register on the outside of the wheel, have you checked the fluid level in the master cylinder? Grinding, could be diff on its way out, bearings, or possibly spring mounts if it occurs when bumpy.

[AlTroakex]

Could the fact that both half shafts were changed not very long ago be causing a problem as well?

[mogbob]

Al
Quite possibly !! Investigate immediately.... do not drive for the moment.
What level is the brake fluid in the master cylinder first of all ? Is there any left ?
Inspect the brakes, after removing each brake drum.Sounds like a wheel cylinder seal is weeping ( at the very least ) or has " let go ".... distributing brake fluid.
You will need to either replace the offending cylinder /cylinders or fit a replacement seal kit, if the cylinders are in " good nick " and not corroded internally.Clean the whole area up with some clean rags and meths.If the brake shoes are soaked with fluid, they will need replacing ( don't try cleaning them it's a safety issue ! ).

The grinding might be several things : -
Does it occur on both left and right turns ?
Loose stone gravel in the brake drum.
Brake shoe retaining springs..broken/ not located correctly
Back plate to rear axle nuts tight.
Hub nut (bearing retaining ) tight
Springs to rear axle fittings...U bolts / nuts secure/ pads not perished and correctly in position
Propshaft bolts tight

Have a good poke around.
Bob

[bmcecosse]

Check the wheel nuts are tight! Why did you change the half shafts??