More brake problems

[brainleak]

I've had this problem almost the whole time i've had my alero. I'd say it started about 30000 miles (i have 104000 now). When i apply the brake anytime its sounds like a cable is being stretched too much or almost like a crunch. I've tried to fix it about a dozen times from a bunch of different mechanics and no one can get a hold of it. I'm just wondering if anyone else experenced this.


Also does anyone know if the mounting brackets vary on gm motors from model to model ( can i take the v6 3400 out of a grand am and slap it into my alero?)

Thanks

[JTrujillo86]

My old Malibu did this and my Alero has done this since I bought it. Every Alero that I test drove (a 99, an 01, two 02's and an 03) did the same thing.

The only motors that will work in the Alero's are the 3400 V6, 2.2 Ecotec, and the 2.4 I4...since the Grand Am and the Alero are on the same platform (N-body), that engine will work.

Jeremy

[brainleak]

Hey thanks. Guess i'll just have to deal with the noise.

[richtazz]

where does the noise sound like it's coming from?

[brainleak]

right out of the front brakes. if i cant hear it i can still feel it in the pedal.

[richtazz]

have you changed the bushings in the calipers. When they get worn, it will allow the caliper to cock slightly, which distorts the casting, and could cause it to make a noise like you describe.

[brainleak]

Originally Posted by richtazz

have you changed the bushings in the calipers. When they get worn, it will allow the caliper to cock slightly, which distorts the casting, and could cause it to make a noise like you describe.

I've replaced everything on the breaks twice. excludeing pads and rotors which has been about 4 or more times now. I've put a lot of money into the problem but have given up on it now. it doesnt seriously effect the preformance of the breaks but it does enough to bother me. oh well. just wish i would have just delt with it then and save the money for a new motor.

[JTrujillo86]

Why do you need a new engine, if you don't mind me asking? Are you just upgrading from the 2.4 to the 3.4?

Jeremy

[Guitarz]

What kind of pads have you been using? Material wise. I understand they recommend ceramic(although I don't have them on mine). I think I will next time. I want to know how the front pads are installed. I have two different manuals that show two different ways(front pads only) I will post this ? on a different thread. Good luck.

TomF

[brainleak]

to awnser your question jeremy the motor is getting old and dogish, with over 104,000 the timing belt will be soon to go and if the motor has to come out for that and in my past experence its never been a cheap thing to replace so why waste the money on the engine removal to keep the old motor running. Originally i was going to swap (it was a 3.4 v6 i plan on replacing it with a lower mileage 3.4 out of a grand am gt) the motor in order to have lower mileage in order to get a better price selling it. but i decided instead to keep it and personalize this car instead of wasting the money on a new one. also the old motor certainly would be able to last with a small turbo kit i plan to put in sooner or later.

Jeff

[JTrujillo86]

Just to let you know, there's not a timing belt in your 3.4L V6. These engines use timing chains which, under normal conditions, never need to be serviced.

Jeremy

[brainleak]

yeah i knew it was a chain but didnt know that they didnt need servicing. Thanks.

[JTrujillo86]

Just make sure you keep enough oil in your car because that's what keeps the chain and the gears that drive the chain in good condition.

Jeremy