Wheel Cylinder: Testing and Inspection

DESCRIPTION
Rear wheel cylinders should not be disassembled unless they are leaking.

INSPECTION
Carefully pull lower edges of rear wheel cylinder boots away from rear wheel cylinder and note whether interior is wet with brake fluid. Excessive fluid indicates leakage past piston cups and a need for rear wheel cylinder overhaul. A slight amount of fluid is normal and acts as a lubricant for the piston.

SERVICING
It is not necessary to remove the rear wheel cylinder from the rear brake backing plate to disassemble, inspect, hone and overhaul the rear wheel cylinder. Removal is necessary only if the rear wheel cylinder is to be replaced because it is damaged or scored beyond service.