Hey all,

2005 Ranger Edge, 3.0, rwd auto. About a month or so ago, I abruptly had no brakes (except for a bit of 'grab' by the front disks). Quick pump and release on the e-brake, a couple times, and I got braking power back, firm and safe. I took apart the drums, cleaned, and put some anti-seize on the contact points, as I was thinking that perhaps the drums were sticking when cold; but since then, it's happened a few more times. It exclusively happens either in the early morning or at night when there is frost or snow, and once I've braked a few times successfully the brakes are firm and reliable. The firmness varies, but after an initial loss and recovery, they are reliable nonetheless. I have been thinking that perhaps the drum brakes are just sticking in the cold, until things warm up enough to prevent that; alternatively, could this be the brake booster? Or something else? It seems very clearly cold related, and usually a couple pushes and releases on the e-brake is enough to get things back again. Any thoughts appreciated! Thanks.