Replacing rear brakes w/rusted e-brake

[Jack08520]

I'm attacking my brakes this weekend. Stop-Tech cryo-treated front rotors with OEM pads and new calipers (I figure after 245k they've got to be worn).

I bought drums, shoes, wheel cylinders, and the hardware kit for the rear - but I'm concerned about getting the shoes out as my E-brake is rusted solid - I'm assuming its "the stuff" that's attached to the backing plate - could this create a problem with getting the shoes out? My plan is to separate the E-brake business and zip-tie it out of the way and get a picture of what's needed and go get it from a salvage yard.

 

[TheDurk]

I'm attacking my brakes this weekend. Stop-Tech cryo-treated front rotors with OEM pads and new calipers (I figure after 245k they've got to be worn).

I bought drums, shoes, wheel cylinders, and the hardware kit for the rear - but I'm concerned about getting the shoes out as my E-brake is rusted solid - I'm assuming its "the stuff" that's attached to the backing plate - could this create a problem with getting the shoes out? My plan is to separate the E-brake business and zip-tie it out of the way and get a picture of what's needed and go get it from a salvage yard.

Well, it's only a problem if it is rusted in the ON position, which it isn't or you could not move the truck or get the drum off. You will be able to get all the shoes and hardware out of there and that exposes the two bolts that hold the bellcrank assembly on to the back. Remove those, disconnect the cable and the bellcrank falls off so you can take it apart, clean it up, lube it and put it back. If it is really gone, replace it. You need a working e-brake or the auto-adjust on the drums won't work.

I was able to save mine in 2009 and they are both fine today. I really had to fight to get them apart, (monster vise, BFH, and a drift pin) but then they cleaned up nice. I just had them off doing a frame swap and I checked them out. I packed the boots with anti-seize, seems to do the job, although I doubt that's the recommended lube.

 

[aeroneer1]

God I hate drum brakes...

It'll be a pain to get off, but be prepared to thread in bolts evenly and hope that the drum doesn't crack like mine did. Also much beating and hammering with it.

Even the worst, rusted on brake drums can be removed, just takes some elbow grease.

Getting everything dialed back in with the new components has been the PITA in my experience.