13 replies to this topic

[Macpi5]

Hello,

 

theres grease contamination in the front brake drum. Is it just a question of replacing the oil seal?

Does It involve a major strip down.
Any advice greatly appreciated thanks.

[Ethel]

Probably. I'd be inclined to pop the ball joints & give  it a proper going over.

 

It's defo not brake fluid??? A failed wheel cylinder seal is way more common & could look greasy when mixed with brake dust - peek inside the cylinder boots.

[mbolt998]

I've got grease on them before by massively overpacking the wheel-bearing. The grease forced its way out past the seal. I learned my lesson. The only thing I'd worked on previously was bicycles, which in those days were based on the principle of "you can't have too much grease", because there were never any proper seals on anything.

[Macpi5]

Thanks everyone for your help. I’ll strip the hub and have a good luck. Will the shoes clean or will I need to replace them?

Sorry, but I’ve just reposted this topic. I didn’t check for replies ! Impatience or what!

 

Ian
 

[Ethel]

It's worth a go. You can also sand them to remove glazing.

[bpirie1000]

Check the cylinder. Is it brake dust and brake fluid mixed together. Consistency is similar to grease

[Spider]

Thanks everyone for your help. I’ll strip the hub and have a good luck. Will the shoes clean or will I need to replace them?

Sorry, but I’ve just reposted this topic. I didn’t check for replies ! Impatience or what!

 

Ian
 

 

Given the low cost of new shoes, I'd suggest binning the old ones. You can sometimes clean the outside of them, but given the porous nature of the friction material, what ever it is that they have been contaminated with, will have soaked in to some degree.

[Macpi5]

Thanks for the advice re the grease contamination. I’m struggling to replace the brake shoes now. I’m thinking it’s easier to remove the wheel bearing so I can get the shoes over on ? Any advice please . Thanks , Ian 

[Cooperman]

The shoes should come off easily after the springs are removed.

[Ethel]

You shouldn't need to remove anything more than the drums. Hook up the last end of the pull off springs with the shoes behind the drive flange. Seat the shoes on the pistons (Easier on the rubbers & stops them turning), then pull/lever them on to the backs of the cylinders. You might find it easier to have something to wedge or clamp the shoes against the back plate while you fit the retainer hardware.

 

There are several YouTube vids - I couldn't see one for front drums on the car, but you should get enough of an idea.

[Macpi5]

Thanks again for your help. Managed to replace the shoes ! 

[Macpi5]

Did just that Ethel. It’s been a while since I’ve worked on brakes. Appreciate your advice.
My first car was a mini, a bit of nostalgia too. My dad & I used to work outside the house in the street.
Happy Days ! 

[bpirie1000]

School boy error but you learnt something new.. that is all that maters....

[Designer]

Hi,

 

That is what is so great about this forum a simple mistake or a simple question will receive the correct answer or advice that is needed and nothing else.

A lot of us on here are very eager/enthusiastic untrained mechanics who have a love for their little ones(Minis) and appreciate all the help that is given by other more knowledgeable members of the forum.

 

Paddy