ABS Problem w/ '92 Pontiac Sunbird

[jms846]

Hello, I have a 1992 Pontiac Sunbird SE Coupe. I have recently had major problems with the rear drum brakes. It almost feels like I have NO ABS system, when it is labeled on the back of my trunk, as well as written in the car's manual. I have replaced the drums about 3 times. Had them cut, put back into round and check a total of 5 times. The time and $ money spent is rediculous, but I still just barely stop at red lights, etc. I am worried I may need a whole new brake system. Any thoughts?

[Sunbird_Owner]

Early ABS systems do had alot of flaws. Do you mean that your back brakes are not working at all.... are you stopping on pavement or ice... do you feel a pulse under the pedal of you are on ice trying to stop? all ABS does is make you stop from sliding.

[jms846]

It is worst during when it rains, but lately it has been during all weather. I feel no pulse when I hit the brake pedal, but it feels as if the drums grab before the front discs do. Thus causing my back end to literally come off the ground hopping to a stop. It is quite scary and I have no idea why this started happening. Thanks for replying, hope to hear more!


3.1L
V6
SE Coupe

[Sunbird_Owner]

might be callipers on you front brakes. Or your pistons.

[jms846]

Okay, I hate to do this, but can you explain? I know a little about cars, and most of what I know about my brakes has been told to me from my mechanic or my father. I'm 21 and a girl but not stupid, just not fully educated on this. Can you explain?

[Chazman]

I would suspect one of two things:

1. Improperly installed brake shoes - the leading shoe should be the thicker one.

2. Fluid leaks - any brake fluid on the shoes (from the wheel cylinders) will soak in like a sponge, they cannot be "fixed" at this point - they must be replaced.

Both of these problems will cause the back brakes to lock up easily.

[jms846]

Thank you! This is been such an on-going problem that I haven't drove my car for the last three weeks. I just don't know what to do. Any thoughts as to whether or not I should drop by a dealership and see what they think?

[Chazman]

Someone needs to look at it - but dealerships can be pricey, I would try a brake and muffler shop, they should give a free diagnosis and estimate.

[jms846]

Thank you! Just so I am clear, could the front brakes have been overlooked as the main problem?

[Chazman]

I doubt it, but the shop should check all the brakes while they are at it.

[jms846]

Thanks again...One more question, has their ever been a recall on ANY Pontiac Sunbird? For any reason? (Obviously wondering about the brakes, but anything I am curious about as welll)

[Chazman]

Try this:

http://www.sourcenet.ca:9001/servlets/Home

[jms846]

Thank you to everyone I will post again to say once it is fixed or the car dumped. But let's hope that doesn't happen...Thank you again!