Hi guys,

I'm after some advice from people with more knowledge and experience than me...

A few weeks ago I purchased a 71 S Beetle (Macpherson front with discs, IRS rear with drums) and in the past few days the front right brake has been 'dragging'. When I'm driving it's almost un-noticable and doesn't pull to one side under braking, but when travelling very slowly I can feel that the brake is on and I'm being pulled to a stop. When I get home the wheel and studs are very hot.

I have been told that it is probably just old brake lines and that new hoses will fix this, but are there any checks I can do to narrow the problem down? I can just see me replace all the brake hoses, go for a drive and the same thing happen!

This is my first post so I appreciate your help.

Cheers, Tim.

Yep, I had the same prob and took it to a well know VW fella who imediatly diagnosed the problem as old lines on the front causing the brake fluid to hold preasure on the pistons, few dollars to fix, trouble was it didnt fix it, after I examined it myself I found that the pistons on one wheel were seized and stayed on permanently. took it to a brake place and had it fixed (both sides just in case :smilegrin and they haved worked perfectly ever since.

My guess is seized caliper piston as well. I've just stripped my calipers and had 2 pistons that were very hard to remove. Just ordered caliper repair kits for $13 each from eBay.

1. Make sure there is freeplay at master cylinder/push rod.
2. Get under the car and crack the bleed nipple open. That will eliminate pressure in the line.
3. Remove the disc pads and using a tyre lever try moving each caliper piston back. If it moves replace the pad, if not repair or replace caliper.
4. seek professional help! Brakes are apparently important in an emergency...

Cheers Dave

Thanks for the advice, guys.

I'll try to get under there this weekend to have a proper look to see what the problem is so I know what to fix.

Hoping it's nothing too serious so I can it back on the road again soon!