Rear Brake Drum Assembly

[goatfarmer]

Had new wheel bearing installed on both rear axles and now in the process of assembly the rear brakes. Purchased an aftermarket hardware kit, what a nightmare, after struggling for 45 min's realized the pins in the aftermarket kit are shorter, springs larger, and the cups are deeper, not flat. After my stress level peaked decided to reuse the old and the assembly went without a problem.

Any thoughts on whether reusing the old hardware would be a problem. I have to make a trip to dealership tomorrow for rear axle seal and could pick up kit if need be; although, from what I could gather online, the kits run approx. $40/ wheel?

Comments/Suggestions appreciated!!

 

[robertd33]

unless any parts were visibly damaged or corroded, it should be fine.

 

[goatfarmer]

unless any parts were visibly damaged or corroded, it should be fine.

Cleaned and wire brushed the old components and looked to be in fair to good condition. I tend to prefer using new replacement parts but having said that, this particular hardware kit probly presented a greater hazard than reusing the old. Now know what to look for, intend inquiring regarding the cost of original kit, if within reason possibly purchase a set?

Appreciate the comment; thank you!

 

[robertd33]

i've reused brake hardware for 25 years on many vehicles; not because i wanted to, but because i couldn't afford new. the only thing i've ever seen break was the heavy spring. now that i can afford to buy replacements, i still don't unless there is a need. there's not that much pressure on brake hardware. if you would feel more comfortable replacing, go for it!

 

[KidVermicious]

I normally spend a couple bucks on new hardware just because it's clean, but it's normally not necessary. If the old stuff is still in good shape, you should have no problem reusing it.

 

[goatfarmer]

Returned from Toyota and they do not offer a 'kit', could ordered individual components; fortunately, checked beforehand and found I did save the old components. Did browse a couple Toyota online part supplier's and the kits they offered appear similar to the kit I had a problem with, decided to go with the old.

Meantime, misplaced 1 of the 'O' rings so unless I locate it, some dumpster diving may be involve, then intend disassembling the 1 side in effort to locate.

In one sense, thought ahead and tool pic's of the brake assembly but a lot of good it did me, not clear where the other end of the spring that runs parallel with the E-brake adjustment assembly; seems there's only 1 location it could attach to; the opening/hole at the top of the rear shoe?

Comments/Suggestions appreciated.

 

[goatfarmer]

Update: Disassembled the 1 side completed and found 2 'O' rings installed on the same housing; good news, in the 45 degree weather this a.m. seems my brain functions slightly better; became obvious there were a couple items I installed incorrectly and the spring in question can only go one way.

Appreciate U all's input, found it very helpful.