Rob7890

[Rob7890]

I have a 1998 Olds Cutlass with 23,000 miles. When I apply the brakes the car makes a sound like when someone is tightening a metal cable and the person is stretching the cable beyond endurance. Also, whenever I turn a corner, I hear the noise from the rear of the car. This can occur w/o applying the brake pedal. Brake pedal seems firm, but car was an estate car and probably did not move much. I don't know how it was stored. Any guesses would be appreciated!

[3100MPFI]

kinda hard to diagnose without hearing it in person, but is almost sounds like it was sitting for a while with the parking brake set, and it did not fully release.

After driving for 10 miles or so, do you smell burning brakes, or does the rear wheels feel HOT to the touch?

[Rob7890]

No, nothing is hot. But, if I shake the car up and down, I can also hear the noise from the rear of the car. Strange, huh?

[caddyman379]

More than likely a suspension issue, check shock or strut mounts for cracks or hardened areas, and spring mounts if this car has springs seperate from the strut. (Sorry, can't remember which this has)

[3100MPFI]

Get under there and look at the ends of the MONOLEAF. It sounds like the spring pads might have worn off.

When you lay down on the ground looking up, at the ends, there is suppose to be a BLACK RUBBER PAD under the end at the knuckle.

See if that pad is there, and if not, you need to replace it.

If that is the case, go to NAPA and get the MOOG replacments. They are a WHITE, SOLID thing that sits between the knuckle, and the monoleaf.

I know that there is a NAPA BRAND that is the same as the moog ones. I want to say it is about $20, and they do not wear out near as fast as the stock ones.

[Rob7890]

Great information! Thank you guys. Much appreciated.