Cleaning and Inspection

PROCEDURE
Clean the metal portion of brake shoes. Check to see if shoes are bent.
Lining should show contact across entire width and from heel to toe, otherwise replace.






Measure the combined thickness of the leading and trailing brake shoe and lining. The lining used on the leading and trailing brake shoes of this vehicle are of different thicknesses. Therefore, the minimum thickness measurement for the replacement of the leading and trailing brake shoes are different. When measuring the thickness, the measurement is the combined thickness of the brake shoe rim and the brake shoe lining. The minimum combined leading brake shoe rim and lining thickness specification for replacement is 3.0 mm . The minimum combined trailing brake shoe rim and lining thickness specification for replacement is 2.8 mm or less.

Shoes with lack of contact at toe or heel may be improperly ground.

Clean and inspect the brake support plate and the automatic self adjusting mechanism.

Visually examine the adjuster assembly to ensure it is functioning correctly by checking for the following operation.






- Be sure the quadrant is free to rotate throughout its entire tooth contact range.
- Ensure that the quadrant is free to slide the full length of its mounting slot in the adjuster mechanism.
- Inspect the quadrant spring for any signs of excessive wear or damage.
- Ensure that the knurled pin is securely attached to the adjuster mechanism and that its teeth are not damaged.
- Overall, examine the adjuster mechanism for excessive wear or damage and replace if necessary.
If the adjuster mechanism is reusable, apply a light coat of Mopar Multi-Purpose Lubricant or equivalent, between the quadrant and the strut of the adjuster mechanism.
If old springs have overheated or are damaged, replace. Overheating indications are paint discoloration or distorted end coils.

DRUM BRAKE WHEEL CYLINDER
With brake drums removed, inspect the wheel cylinder boots for evidence of a brake fluid leak. Visually check the boots for cuts, tears, or heat cracks. If any of these conditions exist, the wheel cylinders should be completely cleaned, inspected and new parts installed.

If a wheel cylinder is leaking and the brake lining material is saturated with brake fluid, the brake shoes must be replaced.