Replace Brake Return springs?
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Joined: Jun 2008
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From: Florida
Replace Brake Return springs?
I'm gettin ready to help a buddy put new brake shoes on his truck,and I was wondering if we should go ahead and replace the return springs too?What about the adjuster?Are these even items that need to be replaced alot?It's been awhile since i've played with a drum equipped vehicle.I remember watchin my dad replacing the rear springs on his truck a few years back,but i'm not sure if it was because they were messed up or if he did it just for the heck of it.Thanks in Advance.
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Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,081
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From: Loganville, WI
It never hurts to put new hardware in if it's all original. As long as they aren't really rusty looking, they are most likely fine though. One thing that always breaks is the cable for the self adjuster so you might need a self adjuster kit, and sometime the adjuster is rusted so bad you can't move it. I always clean everything throughly as well. Just to make sure the wheel cylinder isn't seeping. Or if the axle seals are leaking. Make sure all the rub pads for the shoes are clean then put anti-seize on them. If the adjuster comes apart take them apart as well and clean them up and put anti-seize on the threads and the other end as well. And if the brake shoes are not tapered at the ends you should taper them as it helps them seat better. And when adjusting the brakes I tighten them until there is resistance then one or two more clicks. Good luck, hope this answers your question.
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Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 22,415
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From: Denver Metro Area, CO
Shaun,
Good advice given here. In my experience (I hate drum brakes) I've never had a
problem with return springs or retainers but with two other components... One
(already mentioned) is that little cable for the self adjuster and the other has
been the adjusters themselves - the notched star wheel can get worn out, the
notches can wear away resulting in the self adjusting mechanism not working. I
would say to look at your existing parts and replace the ones that look
questionable or bad.
Good advice given here. In my experience (I hate drum brakes) I've never had a
problem with return springs or retainers but with two other components... One
(already mentioned) is that little cable for the self adjuster and the other has
been the adjusters themselves - the notched star wheel can get worn out, the
notches can wear away resulting in the self adjusting mechanism not working. I
would say to look at your existing parts and replace the ones that look
questionable or bad.
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Alclem
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
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Nov 27, 2011 05:56 PM
