How to change rear brake shoes on a1998 Chevy Cavalier

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After removing the brake drum, inspect the brake shoes. If the lining is worn down to within
¹
/
₃₂
in. (0.8mm) of a rivet, the shoes must be replaced.

This figure may disagree with your state's automobile inspection laws.

If the brake lining is soaked with brake fluid or grease, it must be replaced. If this is the case, the brake drum should be sanded with crocus cloth to remove all traces of brake fluid, and the wheel cylinders should be rebuilt. Clean all grit from the friction surface of the drum before replacing it.

If the lining is chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged, it must be replaced with a new lining.

Always replace the brake linings in sets of two on both ends of the axle. Never replace just one shoe, or both shoes on one side and not the other. When replacing the brakes, it is a good idea to replace one side at a time so that you always have an example to refer to if you get confused during reassembly.

Check the condition of the shoes, retracting springs, and hold-down springs for signs of overheating. If the shoes or springs have a slight blue color, this indicates overheating and replacement of the shoes and springs is recommended. The wheel cylinders should be rebuilt as a precaution against future problems.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

See Figures 1 through 11

Fig. Fig. 1: Some special tools are required when servicing drum brakes

Fig. Fig. 2: Before beginning brake shoe removal, spray the components with a commercially available cleaner

It is not really necessary to remove the hub and wheel bearing assembly from the axle, but it does make the job easier. If you can work with the hub and bearing assembly in place, skip down to Step 12.

Fig. Fig. 3: Use a suitable tool to unhook the return springs

Fig. Fig. 4: Unhook the right side return spring with a suitable brake spring removal tool ...

Fig. Fig. 5: ... then remove the other return spring from the assembly

Fig. Fig. 6: Use the brake tool to compress the hold-down spring and twist the plate to free the pin

Fig. Fig. 7: After removing the actuating link, remove the actuator lever and pivot return spring

Fig. Fig. 8: Remove the parking brake strut and spring

Fig. Fig. 9: Spread the brake shoes enough to clear the hub and bearing ...

Fig. Fig. 10: ... then disconnect the parking brake cable and remove the shoe and spring assembly from the vehicle

A small amount of fluid will be present to act as a lubricant for the wheel cylinder pistons. Fluid spilling from the boot center hole, after the piston is removed, indicates cup leakage and the necessity for cylinder overhaul.

Fig. Fig. 11: Exploded view of the rear drum brake components

To install

ADJUSTMENTS

See Figure 12

Fig. Fig. 12: Adjusting the drum brakes