Hey guys.. I'm in somewhat of a bind and could use some advice. I am still running my '91 Montero that I've owned for almost 16 years. It's still my workhorse after all these years and I'm really attached to it.

Last week a shuddering of the front left occurred when brakes were applied. It had a complete front brake job done by PepBoys including brake caliper replacement less than 10,000 miles ago. Of course with my luck, it's out of the time period warranty. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" />

Took the truck to PepBoys and they claim it was the rotors. Paid over $400 for new rotors and new pads, etc. On the way out I noticed that the new rotors are slightly different. (Not sure if this is a concern, but manager says it is not.)
Picked the truck up last night and on the way home a violent sound like rocks in a blender occurs intermittently when braking. Returned the vehicle immediately. Today PepBoys calls and says they hear the sound but can't figure out where it is coming from, can't fix it, and come pick up the truck. And not to worry the brakes are fine!!! (as if that's a consolation)

I am not a mechanic, just a Montero owner who loves my truck. Any advice you can give or suggestions would be appreciated. Sorry for the long post. I'm beyond frustrated.

#1 Learn to work on your truck yourself.

#2 Check the wheelbearings

Yes, check wheel bearings. When is the last time they were serviced?

They are not hard to work on. If you DIY, you will save a ton of money. If not, take it somewhere else.

I dont see how a mechanic shop cant find a noise like that.

Brakes are one of those things I've never had the confidence to learn to do. Ridiculous I know. And at this point in my life when I no longer have my Dad to look over my shoulder, I've got dinner to make and two kids to put to bed, by the end of the day I've neither the time nor inclination.

Can't fault a girl for trying to get some advice. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> I'll do some research into the bearings and do further investigation to determine noise location. Thanks.

My fault for trusting PepBoys to do what I thought was a simple brake job.

Where do you live? We have forum members ALL over the place, and I am sure 1 or 2 would lend a hand to help you.

I agree with the wheel bearing assesment. Try another shop. Good Luck

All chain brake places are crooks. For your front brakes, you need the following tools. 14mm box end wrench. disc brake caliper spreader (any large auto parts store). piece of fine sandpaper. big tube of disc brake silicone grease.

Use 14mm box wrench to remove lower caliper bolt on back (car) side of caliper, low down. With bolt removed, you can pivot the whole caliper with pads inside up and to the rear. When the caliper clears the disc and backing plate, you can slide the caliper off the upper caliper slide pin. Don't let it hang from the hose. Use a piece of wire to tie caliper up to truck. Note upper slide pin still on hub assy. Should be shiny chrome and greased with clear to amber lube without rough spots. Lower caliper bolt should have same lube on it and be slick on the shaft - no roughness. Rubber boots should be sound. If the pin and bolt are cruddy, sand them slick with the sandpaper. Lube the shaft of the lower bolt. Pack the upper slide pin bore in the caliper with brake lube (not full, but lots, like 25% full. Install new pads with the right antichatter shims on the back of the pads and no-squeal goo on the pad backs. When you install the caliper on the upper slide pin, excess silicone lube will squirt out the little hole in the sheet metal cap on the back of the caliper bore. Catch with a rag. Rotate capliper with pads back onto disc. Won't fit. Remove pads and use spreader to force caliper piston back into caliper to fit fat new pads. Curse self for forgetting, again. Rotate caliper onto disc with pads installed, and insert and tighten lower caliper bolt. Remember to pump brakes until you establish pedal before test drive, or you'll get a heart thumper ride when the pedal hits the floor the first 5-6 times you slam it, while headed for your wife's new car in reverse....

Brakes are easy. Bearings are almost as easy with the hub nut tool.

Thanks.

I picked the truck up and - fingers crossed- no noise. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />I'm starting to wonder if a tool or bolt wasn't left behind and flew out when I pulled away the first time I picked up the truck.

Thanks for the tips and advice. I will print it out to use should I need to investigate further. The manager knocked off $100 since he felt bad about it. Have a great weekend all! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />