Two problems related to brake drum wheel cylinder have been reported for the 1999 Dodge Dakota. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Brake line failure, rear brakes seized. Replaced rear brake shoes and wheel cylinders 6,500 miles ago (approximately 1 1/2 years ago). Several weeks ago 9/23/2011 my truck suffered rear brake line failure - steel line that runs from front to back - failure adjacent left rear tire within frame housing. I discovered the line wall failure within an area of extreme corrosion of the line - approximately six inches of the brake line with remaining nine plus feet of the line in like new condition. Further review discovered the left rear brake assembly to be severely corroded, ie shoes, springs, adjusters, etc. As well as the left front rotor assembly. Review of the physical body of the truck found the left front cab body mount to be "gone" (rusted away!) as well as several areas of the left side of the body proper also exhibiting oxidation (two years ago this was not the case at all). The remainder of the truck, center section as well as the right side (brakes included) to be in like new condition exhibiting normal wear and tear, with no corrosion. My conclusion, as well as a number of other "gear head friends", is that the new ice inhibitor being added to the center section of our connecticut roads during the winter months is promoting extreme premature corrosion resulting in ultimate failure of brake, and possibly fuel line components, of our vehicles.
Not sure if rear wheel drive. Manufacturer contacted. Very lucky leaking brake cyliders caught by mechanics during routine tire rotation. Safety issue.