2001 Nissan Pathinder 4wd
3.5L V6, 130,0000
During hard or high speed braking, I get a strong shudder from the rear end. Even when braking at slower speeds, it seems like the brakes grab then release as the wheels turn. I've pulled on the parking brake to verify it is coming from the back.
Longer story - was told by the garage I had a leaky wheel cylinder. Disassembled and verified. Decided to go ahead a change them on both sides, plus purchased new hardware (i.e. springs), purchased new drums, and installed. Initial test drive seemed ok.
Went on the highway the following week and immediately noticed the shudder in the rear when braking at high speeds. Suspected out of round drums. Disassembled, cleaned reinstalled and tried again. Same thing. Sent drums back to retailer and purchased OEM (Japanese) parts (first set were aftermarket). Installed and tested on highway - same thing.
I'm not sure where to go next. Seems unlikely I got 2 consecutive out of round drums. Could it be the wheel cylinders? Should I have replaced the shoes?
Appreciate anyone's insight. Thx!