[ejcrow1]

I have a 1979 Trans Am and there is a loud noise from the rear tire on driver side when applying the brake in reverse. And a small trail of black dust on the pavement from that side. Could that mean new rotor and pads are needed and which on the NAPA site would be best for this car?

 

[sleepyhollowtaman]

When you drive it, does the rotors get hot? If so, bad calipers. Check the rotors for wear and warp. As far as the Napa site, I go to Advanced Auto near my house.

 

[1993TransAm]

Just a few questions:
1. Do you know for certain that you have rear disc brakes? Don't take offense to my question, but it could make a difference in diagnosis.
2. Do you routinely set the parking brake on the vehicle when you park it?
3. If so, was it set before this most recent incident? (I am assuming if so, you attempted to release the parking brake.)

 

[ejcrow1]

Just found out that it needs new rotor and pads on that rear driver side. But, another question, I was told to get new springs too but how many new springs?

 

[1993TransAm]

Did someone else look at the car?

 

[ejcrow1]

Did someone else look at the car?

Yeah, someone else checked it.

 

[Aus78Formula]

Discs, drums, springs for what? Sounds like you need to book it in somewhere.

 

[1993TransAm]

OP: In your reply you mentioned that you were told that the car needed a new rotor and pads on the driver's rear wheel. I would hope that if a qualified mechanic did the brake inspection, he/she would have recommended that you replace the pads and rotors on the rear axle, that is, both wheels in the rear.

One other question for you, and I don't mean to beat this to death, but did the person who looked at it take the wheel off of the car, check the caliper slides, measure the remaining friction material, etc., etc.? The reason I am asking is because based upon your initial description of the condition and my professional experience, there is a very high possibility that you have something more than mere replacement of friction parts necessary.

And like Ben said, I'm not sure what was meant by "springs."

 

[Aus78Formula]

Yes, needing new springs could be suspension related or to the components in a brake drum assembly or rear disc park brake, we weren't even sure what the car had. Says rotors and pad so assume rear discs but...

 

[ejcrow1]

I assume rear brake shoe springs?
https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/UP_80712?impressionRank=1

 

[Aus78Formula]

Those would be for drum brakes. So again we ask, what is yours?

 

[ZumpTA]

If there was ever a time to state: "A picture is worth a thousand words"...

 

[Aus78Formula]

Problem is, neither answer will decide anything.