Wheel Cylinder: Service and Repair

Wheel Cylinder Replacement

Special Tools

J 38400 Brake Shoe Spanner and Spring Remover
Warning: Refer to Brake Dust Warning (Brake Dust Warning).

Warning: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Warning (Brake Fluid Irritant Warning).


Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Caution (Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Caution).

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Service and Repair).
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (Service and Repair).
3. Remove the brake drum. Refer to Brake Drum Replacement (Removal and Replacement).
4. Clean any debris and contaminants from around the wheel cylinder.




5. Remove the wheel cylinder bleeder cap and valve (2).
6. Disconnect the brake pipe fitting (1) from the wheel cylinder. Cap the exposed brake pipe end to prevent fluid loss and contamination.
7. Remove the wheel cylinder mounting bolts (3).




8. Using the J 38400 , spread the top of the brakes shoes apart, then remove the wheel cylinder from the brake backing plate.

Installation Procedure




1. Using the J 38400 , spread the top of the brakes shoes apart, then install the wheel cylinder to the brake backing plate.





Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution (Fastener Caution).

2. Install the wheel cylinder mounting bolts (3).

Tighten the bolts to 16 Nm (12 lb ft).

3. Remove the cap from the brake pipe end.
4. Connect the brake pipe fitting (1) at the wheel cylinder.

Tighten the fitting to 19 Nm (14 lb ft).

5. Install the wheel cylinder bleeder valve.

Tighten the valve to 8 Nm (71 lb in).

6. Install the brake drum. Refer to Brake Drum Replacement (Removal and Replacement).
7. Bleed the hydraulic brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Manual) (Service and Repair)Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure) (Service and Repair)Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Rear Brake Caliper - Cobalt SS) (Service and Repair).
8. Install the bleeder valve cap.
9. Adjust the drum brakes. Refer to Drum Brake Adjustment (Adjustments).
10. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation (Service and Repair).
11. Lower the vehicle.