* Worn or Damaged Brake Shoes/Pads: This is the most likely culprit. Worn brake shoes create less surface area for braking, forcing the remaining material to work harder and generate more heat. Similarly, damaged shoes (cracked, glazed, etc.) can be inefficient and overheat.
* Sticking Caliper or Wheel Cylinder (if drum brakes): If a brake caliper (disc brakes) or wheel cylinder (drum brakes) isn't releasing properly, the brakes will constantly be dragging, generating excessive heat. This is a serious issue that needs immediate attention.
* Parking Brake Engaged or Partially Engaged: A simple but easily overlooked problem. Make sure your parking brake is fully released.
* Low Brake Fluid: Low brake fluid can indicate a leak in the system, leading to insufficient braking pressure and increased heat generation as the brakes struggle to work effectively.
* Seized or Damaged Brake Hardware: Rust, corrosion, or damage to the brake hardware (pins, springs, etc.) can prevent the brake shoes from moving freely, causing them to drag and overheat.
* Incorrect Adjustment: The brake shoes need to be properly adjusted to maintain the correct clearance from the drum. If they're too tight, they'll drag.
* Overuse/Hard Braking: Repeated hard braking, especially downhill, generates significantly more heat than normal braking.
* Wheel Bearing Problems: A bad wheel bearing can cause the wheel to bind, putting extra stress on the brakes and generating heat. You might notice other symptoms like noise or play in the wheel.
* Drum Damage: A warped or scored brake drum won't make even contact with the brake shoes, leading to uneven wear and heat buildup.
What to do:
1. Safety First: If your brakes are overheating significantly, don't drive the vehicle until the problem is addressed. Overheating brakes can fail catastrophically.
2. Check Brake Fluid Level: Inspect the brake fluid reservoir. Low fluid usually indicates a leak.
3. Inspect Brake Drums: Once the vehicle has cooled down, visually inspect the drums for scoring, warping, or damage.
4. Feel for Drag: Carefully rotate each wheel. You should feel minimal resistance. If a wheel is hard to turn, that indicates a potential problem with the brakes in that wheel.
5. Professional Inspection: If you're not comfortable inspecting the brakes yourself, take your Ford Ranger to a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair. Brake safety is paramount.
Do not attempt brake repairs yourself if you're not experienced and familiar with automotive braking systems. Improper repair can lead to dangerous consequences.
