I have a 2000 Cherokee in which I have replaced rear drums and pads several times because of the rear brakes locking up when driving at slow speeds. I've used the brake adjuster to where the pads barley touch the rear drums but these is only good for a short time. Any ideas what maybe the problem

 

What brand parts are you using?

 

Any oil or brake fluid on the shoes? Both sides locking up, or just one side?

 

Using O'reily Auto Parts

 

No oil,and seems both sides are locking up

 

i've had a similar problem with my front brakes. Sometimes after i get into a little mud, my front passenger brakes lock up. I'll just be driving along and all of a sudden it feels like a lose power and i can smell brakes burning. It's done it probably 4 times. if i take it to the car wash and power spray the entire wheel and brakes, it will ease up, but i don't get it.....why only that side? and why would it lock up?

Edit--oops...forgot to mention this is on my YJ.....i have Wranglerforum.com up as well

 

are your front calipers sticking or seized? if your rear brakes are locking prematurely sounds like you have a front brake issue to me.

 

No , front brakes work great

 

You rear wheel cylinders are probably corroded inside.

Replace both with new ones, adjust rear shoes so that they just touch drum at rest, and bleed the entire brake system.

You could also install new brake hardware just to be sure.

 

Thanks Firestorm I'll replace the wheel cylinders on my next day off

 

I did a complete rear brake job yesterday on my '97. I always replace the old hardware with new. Do you? O'Reilly's sells a complete, and I mean complete hardware kit for about $18. If your wheel cylinders are dry (I've had to replace both sides on mine) then I'd suspect that your problem might be dry frictions surfaces along with weak return springs, and/or improperly installed hardware (no disrespect intended...they're not the easiest brakes to work on).

 

Thanks Weebur
I did not replace the hardware but I will this time.