I've got an 1989 F-150 4X4 302 and after the truck sits for a short period of time (hour or so) somethings drags HARD at takeoff. My first guess is a dragging brake. I haven't jacked it up yet to see which tire is dragging, but wanted to see if anyone else has heard/experienced this. It seems to disappear after driving a short distance (block or so). I've also noticed that it seems better if I reverse for a short distance. Looking for any help! Thanks.

 

Check your drum brakes. I had one break, and it did the same thing.

 

What do you mean by "break?" What am I looking for as far as something breaking? I pulled off my wheel & drum and attempted adjusting the "star wheel" until it seemed like the e-brake would not grab. The service brakes still seemed to grab to the point where I couldn't turn the wheel when off the ground. What am I actually adjusting with the "star wheel", the e-brake, service brakes or both? I gave everything (except the brake pad itself) a thorough bath in brake cleaner & it still seemed like the shoe wanted to stick.

 

Star wheel is for the service break.

Adrianspeeder

 

Mine actually broke, as in a chunk of the pad broke off of the shoe, and was floating around inside the drum. When it happened, the symptom was the same as you described - the wheel locked up. If I reversed, it would seem to free up, but then it would lock again the next time I hit the brake pedal. If you already had yours apart, then I'm afraid this is prolly not your problem.