Date:         Mon, 10 Jan 2005 13:44:24 -0500
Reply-To:     Roger Sisler <rogersisler2000@YAHOO.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Roger Sisler <rogersisler2000@YAHOO.COM>
Subject:      Re: Grease mess in rear brakes

Lucas,I think you are are correct about the grease seals and all.You need
to consider the total miles on that 82 ,when you do this repair.Check the
backing plates first.If you have deep grooves worn into the contact boss's
where the shoes ride(four of them),You may get a clunk when you apply the
brakes.I had this once on a ford van. I have seen it written that a file
can be used to correct this,but I think that will affect the geometry too
much(new backing plates $79 each at BD).Get new springs(cheap).Turn the
drums to remove any rust,ect.,if they are within spec.Thin drums will
cause immproper heat dissapation,and can overheat new linings. New wheel
cylinders(also cheap)!While you have all this apart,and if your van has
high mileage, pound out the stub axel and remove(may have to remove the CV
axel first).Check for any grooves in the stub axel where it contacts the
inner grease seal.If you can catch your fingernail on any groove here,it
must be sanded out w/emery cloth or replace the stub axel.I'd put in new
greese seals here(cheap).Remove and regrease each parking brake cable.
They have grease cups on either end.Fill and squeeze grease into the cable
jacket several time and then fill the cup and reconnect to the cable. Use
high temp brake grease.Makes your parking brake smooooooth.good luck,Roger
Sisler.