Date:         Tue, 6 Jan 2004 12:10:45 -0600
Reply-To:     John Rodgers <jh_rodgers@BELLSOUTH.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Rodgers <jh_rodgers@BELLSOUTH.NET>
Subject:      First Time Rear Brakes
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Time to replace rear brakes on the ol' 88 GL. This is my first time to
do this myself.

So far ....


Wheels chocked.
Van up on jack stands.
Wheels off
Removed bolt retaining drum to hub.
Tapped drum all the way around with 3 pound hammer. Saw the drum move
slghtly towards the ends of the studs.

Now what?? I know I must back off the brake adjuster, but I cannot see
or feel anything inside the drum through the adjustment hole. Is there a
some special tool of a special shape that I need to fit into the drum
and reach the right spot?? My little screwdriver just doesn't do a thing.

For that matter, what are all the tools that would be recommended for
doing the brake job?

Also, is it absolutely necessary to disconnect the parking brake
equilizerto change the brakes. I have been under this thing so much
lately that I just hate  doing it again! Really has my bursitis acting up.

Thanks,

Regards,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver
Chelsea, AL