Had brakes done 14K miles ago on 99 4x4. Couple of weeks ago strange sound started - almost like worn pads and metal on metal. Took it in. They said the backing plate had slipped off and that was the prob. Also changed front pads at same time. Still had prob. took it back. they turned all the rotors and could not figure it out. took it the ford dealer - they said it was the parking brake assembly. wanted $780 for new rotors and parking brake assembly. he said just to scrap the parking brake cuz it was terrible design and do not need on automatic. anyway, did that, cleaned all the slides up and still have the sensation. it is only when i depress the brake pedal, yet the first place says that it is not in the brakes, does anyone have any thoughts. could it be in drivetrain or elsewhere even though it is only when the brakes are applied.

 

What type of pads? Ceramics kinda did that for me, drove me ape****. Replacing the whole parking brake assembly was probably not needed, but it's said and done. They are a crappy design, but if maintained work fine. I replaced only the shoes and hardware kit, plus did a bit of cleaning and antisiezing, mine still work great. Hard to tell what your problem is, maybe more description if you could.

 

have you thought about the hub bearings?they are known to go out in 4x4s.

 

would the hub bearing make the noise only when the brakes are engaged. i would have thought that would be a constant noise. not sure what the pads were - probably just basic stuff.

 

they dealer mechanic said get rid of the parking brake???? what is he a fool?? id bring it someplace else just for that comment alone.

 

They actually failed me on my safety when buying from my lease because the e-brake linings were cracked, but still worked. A mechanic should not release an unsafe vehicle knowingly. On the front pads, the thin steel sliders they rest on may not have the littlest tabs bent in to make sure it doesn't slide, check that too. It may be contacting the rotor.