Diagnosing and Resolving Rear Wheel Rotation Issues v2

Toyota Prado 120 Series
1

Introduction

This guide provides troubleshooting steps for diagnosing and resolving issues where a rear wheel does not rotate smoothly, exhibiting tension, creaking, or swooshing sounds. These symptoms may indicate problems with the brake system, handbrake assembly, or wheel bearings.

Problem

A vehicle experiences the following symptoms with one of its rear wheels:

  • Uneven rotation with points of increased resistance or tension.
  • Creaking sounds at slow speeds.
  • Swooshing sounds at slightly faster speeds.

Solution

Follow these steps to diagnose and resolve the issue:

  1. Check for a Warped Brake Disc:

    • Remove the brake pads to eliminate them as a source of friction.
    • Rotate the wheel by hand (without using the brake pedal). If the issue persists, the brake disc may be warped.
    • Alternatively, use a dial indicator to measure the warpage of the brake disc.

  2. Inspect and Adjust the Handbrake:

    • Completely disengage the handbrake.
    • Rotate the wheel again to see if the issue persists.
    • Locate the handbrake adjustment cog through an access hole (usually at the 6 o’clock position on the rotor hub).
    • Spray a small amount of lubricant into the access hole onto the cog.
    • Use a flat-head screwdriver to adjust the handbrake tension. Small adjustments are sufficient. The direction to loosen the handbrake is typically rotating the cog from bottom to top.
    • Check if the handbrake is working properly and not over tensioned.

  3. Evaluate Wheel Bearings:

    • If the issue persists after checking the brake disc and handbrake, a faulty wheel bearing is a likely cause.
    • Consider that prolonged periods of storage may cause the bearing to degrade.

  4. Bent or Stretched Arched Pin:

    • Inspect the arched pin connecting to the parking brake (if previously bent/stretched).
    • SOLUTION: Replace the bent/stretched arched pin.

Relevant Parts

  • Replacement wheel bearing (if diagnosed as faulty).
  • Replacement brake disc (if diagnosed as warped).
  • Replacement arched pin connecting to the parking brake.

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