1992 explorer noise / rubbing sound while turning

[NWmrTim]

OK...

so I got this 1992 explorer given to me because it needed (front) brakes, and they'd put tap water in it, which clogged the radiator and heater core (which I replaced).

I installed new front pads, rotors, and calipers. Everything is good there. I noticed every time I turn as tight as the vehicle can (like a U-turn) I hear a "rubbing" sound, it sounds (and kinda feels) like the rear brakes are binding. I went and checked the rear pads, which had plenty of meat on them, BUT... one side had both "shorts" and the other side had both "longs".

I completely disassembled the rear brakes, and properly reassembled them, photo documenting the process (so I can post a DIY here). Still rubbing in a tight turn. Got new shoes, put them in.. STILL rubbing. I put the original shoes back in -PROPERLY- and I still hear / feel a rubbing.

Would a bad RABS unit do that? I'm sure it don't work, I can lock up the brakes if I try.

I even put in the track-lock lube in the rear diff and drove around in a parking lot in tight turns. that seems to have helped a slight bit but I still hear/feel rubbing while turning around (and I wanted to rule that out). I also checked tension in the parking brake cable, and it was not hung or binding. The symptoms still occur regardless of whether the parking brake is used or not.

UGH...

Let me know what you think, OH and I'll post the pictures in the DIY section.

 

[91Rustbucket]

Any chance you have e-brake rub?

 

[NWmrTim]

Any chance you have e-brake rub?

well... I checked that all out, and kind of ruled that out because it only happens when in a tight turn - and turning either direction, not just one versus the other.

 

[Albino 94LTD]

What is the axle code on the door tag?

 

[~X~]

What size tires are on it? Sounds like you hear rubbing only when the steering is at full lock. A bigger than stock tire with stock suspension can rub on the sway bar or inner fender.

 

[NWmrTim]

What is the axle code on the door tag?

The axel code is D4

 

[NWmrTim]

What size tires are on it? Sounds like you hear rubbing only when the steering is at full lock. A bigger than stock tire with stock suspension can rub on the sway bar or inner fender.

standard / stock 235/75-15

 

[Albino 94LTD]

The axel code is D4

That's a 3.73 Limited Slip. Have any off road modifications been done to it? In full lock turns a tight LS carrier might give some odd sensations of maybe someone changed it to an auto locker.

Probably no evidence of tire rub.

I I R C, you're in Kirkland? I might be able to help diagnose this weekend after some snow melts

 

[NWmrTim]

That's a 3.73 Limited Slip. Have any off road modifications been done to it? In full lock turns a tight LS carrier might give some odd sensations of maybe someone changed it to an auto locker.

Probably no evidence of tire rub.

I I R C, you're in Kirkland? I might be able to help diagnose this weekend after some snow melts

Yes, limited slip 3.73.. no modifications done to any of the rig. ITs weird!

No not in Kirkland, I am just south of I-90. Feel free to send me a private message, and I'll give you my number. Yes stuck in the snow here and one hub is making a loud knock on occasion (usually when I hit the gas LOL!)

 

[MrQ]

One of the modifications to the LS in the 8.8 you can do is add additional clutches to tighten the pack up. As @Albino 94LTD said, if that was done that tire rubbing (or squeegy-ing) is indicative of the LS locking up.

 

[AGodlyCanuck]

Have you checked that tour fender liner is properly attached? Mine wasn't so I zip tied it back into place and boom. No more rub.

 

[AGodlyCanuck]

Actually, I almost wonder if maybe it's a worn or tired U Joint.