Technical Brake squel problems with the Ducato?

[Guyt54]

Hi guys,

I live in Canada, bought a RAM Promaster that is basically a Fiat Ducato adapted (a lot) for the North American market. It as been introduced here in 2014.

One issue a lot of Promaster owners complain about is the brakes squeal problem, specially the front brakes. Boy, they scream like a pig!

Just wondering, do the Ducatos have the same issue?

Thanks.

 

[CDK]

Mine does!
As soon as the play in the non-adjustable front wheel bearings exceeds that of the brake pads, the front brakes are getting noisy. Replacing the bearing solves it but is difficult because it involves a hydraulic press.
Grinding a wedge from the leading edge of the brake pads is a temporary solution. Some copper grease on the back of the brake pads also helps.

 

[adlarplant]

had a bit of a problem with mine (2011 model) with brake squeal not overly excessive changed over to TWR pads last time 1/3 the price in Australia better pedal feel ,feel more progressive underfoot, less brake dust and quieter
Cheers Adam

 

[Techno100]

At what sort of mileage does this start to happen? Mine is a maxi chassis and travels around with over 4 ton full time but not experienced squeel yet.

 

[adlarplant]

Mine does!
As soon as the play in the non-adjustable front wheel bearings exceeds that of the brake pads, the front brakes are getting noisy. Replacing the bearing solves it but is difficult because it involves a hydraulic press.
Grinding a wedge from the leading edge of the brake pads is a temporary solution. Some copper grease on the back of the brake pads also helps.

CDK ive never had wheel bearing problems in mine just clocked up 650000kms in it and they are still factory fitted front and rear been through floods and rough roads still only 7 thou movement last time i checked them Cheers Adam

 

[CDK]

You've been lucky then Adam. I had the one on the right replaced last year, although the mechanic said it wasn't necessary. It did end the squealing there, now I hear only the left brake with the window open. On the internet you find a lot of complaints about the r.h. wheel bearing; it seems Fiat installed bearings without grease around 2007 and discovered it too late.

 

[rolopolo]

Mine did it from new, i believe it's the compound used, but I lived with it, they lasted 160,000 miles, then put Lucas trw pads in, brill no squeak but they lasted 40,000 miles

 

[Guyt54]

Well mine (as others) squealed from day 1.

Had a break last spring for a month or so. Got really bad this Summer, while I was in Oregon (windsurfing). The lady at the toll bridge that I used almost every day was really glad when I told her my vacation time was over