1997 Ford Ranger Brakes Problems

“I own a 1997 Ford Ranger xlt 4x4 4.0ltr.many shops have work on the front axel wheel bearings and seals and retainer nut this nut takes a socket 2.3/8 r-6 most shops don't have it so they use what ever they have,chisell,locking plyers ect...creating front end damage to wheel bearings,seals, brakes,calipers,brake drums, most of al the tires..I have spent thousands of dollars because they did not use the right tool for the job also did not remove lcking pin from spindel.”

“Idle speed rises to 3,000 RPM in between shifts and while coasting with clutch pedal depressed. Does not drop to normal idle speed until vehicle comes to a complete stop. This causes braking to be less effective.”

“Sudden brake failure --two instances first in sept 2009 and today --severe corrosion on rear brake lines and lose of brake fluid and no brakes ---need to check all 1997 Ford rangers xlt for similar problems as can result in a crash. I have had repairs made as afraid of repeat also notice corrosion at front brake lines.”

“Multiple failures of front rotors- stepped on brakes- and pulses and shakes, removed tire to check rotors- rotor cracked- same scenario each time- pass side 1st time 30k (august 1999), 2nd time 48k(april 2001) , 3rd time 58k, pads failed- replaced nov 2001, and jan 2002- replaced caliper and pads.- now has 84k and so far ok. …”

“Reporting numerous serious safety problems with vehicle since purchased used ---original occurrence date not certain but over a number of years mechanical failures occurred that could have resulted in serious injury or fatalities. The failures include but not exclusive to entire brake system failure due to brake lines corroded and leaked all hydraulic fluid --rear body support system gave out during driving and rear wheels and axles not attached to body ---vehicle lost control and went off into shoulder--radial axial arm rusted away and steering system failed while driving. …”