Club 80-90 Forums

Hi all,
just bought a 1983 1900 Aircooled Devon and im chuffed to bits but for one problem.
It has a really annoying high pitched squeak/whistle that is coming from the passenger front wheel area.
Have taken it to a mechanic who told me to get a new servo but then decided that wasnt the problem.
he stripped down the brakes cleaned them and put back together but seems just as bad.
The noise doesnt start till ive driven about 5 miles stops when i push brake pedal but starts again when released,
also stops when i turn the steering wheel from straight.
Any idea,s would be greatly appreciated, its driving me mad
many thanks.

Hello, i would of wagered it would be worn brake pads/discs. I had exactly the same symptons in my car the other week and could of sworn it was coming from the os front wheel, but it turned out to be worn rear pads. Replaced them and noise stopped. When the whistling starts gently pull on the handbrake and see if it stops.
David.

hello devonboy and welcome

from what you have described i would suggest you start with/check the obvious things first

it's intersting that your mechanic went straight for one of the less likely, but more expensive, options - i'd be going somewhere different in the future if i were you

have you jacked up the problem wheel and given it a good shake with your hands at 6 and 12 o'clock and again at 3 and 9 o'clock? any wheel wobble? check your wheel bearings

wheel off, inspect caliper, pads and disc - any signs of uneven wear/seizure/leaks? does the caliper pot retract fully and stay open?

after that, check your ball joints, anti-roll bar, etc. for play/damage

based on the info you've given, i'd be starting with the wheel bearings

p.s. if you can give more info and possibly record a short video with sound on your phone whilst the vehicle is in motion and post it up that would help folk in helping you

cheers,

billy

I would second taking a look at the wheel bearings - they can give that symptom when they are on their way out.

thanks guys for your time
cheers Ian.

did you get this sorted. I have exactly the same thing - and have been given lots of advice and dont really know where to start. I have been told to copperslip grease the back of the pads. I have also been told it might be the handbrake that needs adjusting. I also have play in the foot brake . Did this happen to you also ?