I took my front left caliper off yesterday to clean it up and lube the caliper pins. One of the pins has a plastic insert on the end. Does this pin go anywhere specific, like either the front or rear of the caliper? I had it on the rear but after messing with it, decided it worked better on the front. What is this plastic insert for? The parts fiche shows no insert on the rear caliper. The attachment shows a front set of pins without the plastic but is machined for it.

 

The rubber piece was a later addition on the pin. I always put it on but honestly it is probably more trouble than its worth. I think the theory is it helps prevent drag. I always buy a Raybestos brake hardware kit and they come with new rubber pieces. Correct there is no rubber on the rear pins.

 

Helps create a seal in the grease.

What inspired you to tear down the front drivers side? Usually that brake hose is the first to delaminate. On a 2003 you are over due for a replacement.

 

I always grease the crap out of those pins with wheel bearing grease to help prevent sticking as I drive in traffic all day in high temps.

 

I replaced the front pads a year ago last January. I could have waited a bit longer, but with 175K miles, I figured it was time.

The front left side was making a humming noise almost to the point of a honk, like an old school bus used to make. I thought the pads on the left front may have been hanging up. So I took the pins out cleaned/lubed and reinstalled. The noise is still there. Pads naturally, are in great shape. I bought the best semi metallic pads from NAPA. I think the fronts cost about $85.

It stops fine with no shimmy or pulling. Just that Gawd-awful noise periodically.

I noticed a weeping behind the left rear backing plate..I hope that's repairable for a shadetree mechanic with limited tool access.

Oh, I bought this truck in Monroe,WA. We used to live in Everett and Mt Vernon before moving to OR and then to SC. I rode my motorcycle thru Carnation a few times. Nice town.

 

Time to replace the brake hose on the front drivers side at a minimum, you might consider doing all the brake hoses w after market stainless braided like Russel. Add in SpeedBleeders and all new fluid while you are there.

 

Have been having problems for some time with rotors warping... and finally decided this time to replace all the hoses. You just reaffrimed what I was thinking. I've replaced calipers, rotors, pads....all Napa.... and keep having problems.... Getting hoses soon !