Contents: Removal ⇊ Installation ⇊
Note: In case of leaks, wheel cylinders must be replaced without fail. Manufacturers do not recommend attempting to perform restorative repairs on these brake components.
Removal
1. Jack up the rear of the car and place it on supports. Support the front wheels with wheel chocks.
2. Remove the brake drum and shoes (see Section Replacing the shoes of the rear wheel drum brake mechanisms).
3. Clean the wheel cylinder and surrounding surfaces from dirt.
4. Disconnect the hydraulic line from the rear of the wheel cylinder. Use a special open-end wrench with a slotted head to avoid rounding the splines of the fitting. When disconnecting, do not pull on the metal tube of the brake line to avoid deformation, which can significantly complicate the connection procedure. Immediately plug the open end of the brake line to minimize fluid loss and prevent dirt from entering the hydraulic system.
5. Disconnect the hydraulic line from the rear of the wheel cylinder (see accompanying illustration). Use a special open-end wrench with a slotted head to avoid rounding the splines of the nipple. When disconnecting, do not pull on the metal tube of the brake line to avoid deformation, which can significantly complicate the connection procedure. Immediately plug the open end of the brake line to minimize fluid loss and to prevent dirt from entering the hydraulic system.
Note: If there are traces of hydraulic fluid on the friction linings of the brake shoes, the shoes should be replaced and the working surface of the drum should be thoroughly cleaned.
Installation
1. Lubricate the mating surfaces of the wheel cylinder and brake shield with RTV sealant. Install the cylinder in its regular place and connect the hydraulic line to it. Do not tighten the union nut yet.
2. Insert the mounting bolts and tighten them securely. Now you can tighten the union nut completely. Reinstall the shoe assembly.
3. Bleed the brake system (see Section Bleeding the brake system).
4. Before operating the vehicle, make sure that the brakes are functioning properly.