8 replies to this topic

[vinergy]

Hi, I just got my first mini ('77)  that needs little work.

 

I am replacing front brakes, but cannot get springs on , it’s too tight for using regular pliers - should I have a special tool? or maybe there is a trick to it?

 

 

[RedRuby]

I haven't worked on front drums in a lot of years but hopefully not too different to the backs in principle, I attach one spring to both shoes and get the shoes in position but not on the adjusters or wheel cylinders, then attach the second spring to one shoe then using long nose pliers on the other end of the spring hook it onto the second shoe then fit both shoes into the wheel cylinders and adjusters. Can be fiddly but with patience not to difficult to do.

[Richc69]

Sound advice from RedRuby,  I put the hooked end closest to the spring coils on first and use long nose pliers to attach the other end as per above.  Make sure the adjuster is backed off fully to make it easier to stretch the shoe springs over the wheel cylinders.

[vinergy]

Thank you for quick replies , will try

[Richc69]

Also make sure you have the brake shoes around the right way,  on twin cylinder front drum brakes,  the shoes have a leading edge (the lining doesn't cover all of the metal backing).

[vinergy]

Thanks - I think shoes can go in one way only due to adjusters , there is opening for them on one side only, but will check

[Richc69]

Thanks - I think shoes can go in one way only due to adjusters , there is opening for them on one side only, but will check

Yes that rings a bell,  been a while since I worked on front drum brakes.  Hope you get it sorted - have a box of band-aids on stand-by and watch out for flying springs!

[vinergy]

All sorted ! Many thanks again for quick help , I managed to finish all without band-aids :)

[carbon]

Springs should go between the shoe and backplate, that way it helps keep the shoes flat.