Stupid circlip

[CutlassKage]

My brakes were done when I bought the car. Rusted rear lines so started my work. Several issues. Why are there no holes in the backing plate to get to the adjuster? I see the knockouts but seriously? Also, that damn circlip which took me forever to get off. Also messed up the backing plate a little trying to get it off. Leads to another issue....taking off the axle to get to the $15 backing plate. Ugh! I did find a 2 piece plate on eBay which I scooped up. But is there anyway to use a wheel cylinder that can be screwed in or clamped. I know the answer will be switch to disk but I’m staying with drum. Thanks and sorry for my rant.

 

[85442/86buick]

search Rock auto for a S-10 rear drum set up , it uses a bracket to hold the wheel cylinder and it bolts to the backing plate.

Raybesto GMB25851 -Drum Brake Wheel Cylinder Bracket

 

[pontiacgp]

If you want to change the backing plates it's not a difficult job to get the axles out and it'll give you a chance to change the 30 year + rear end oil. Plus with the axles out you can check them to see if there is any damage from the axle bearings and to change the axle seals if they are hard

 

[fleming442]

😗And put a new pin and retainer bolt in, unless it breaks.

 

[timo22]

Yep , those circlips can be a bear. I've found the the easiest way to remove the clip is to use two 16d nails. Simply hit them in between the clip and wheel cylinder and it will pop right out.


timo22

 

[pagrunt]

Yep , those circlips can be a bear. I've found the the easiest way to remove the clip is to use two 16d nails. Simply hit them in between the clip and wheel cylinder and it will pop right out.


timo22

I got lucky, picked up the Lisle clip spreader back when they still made them. Makes it alot easier.

 

[08Malibu]

search Rock auto for a S-10 rear drum set up , it uses a bracket to hold the wheel cylinder and it bolts to the backing plate.

Raybesto GMB25851 -Drum Brake Wheel Cylinder Bracket

Will that work with stock drums on a 7.5 rear. I need new backing plates.

 

[85442/86buick]

Will that work with stock drums on a 7.5 rear. I need new backing plates.

I would say yes , and rock auto again for the backing plates , and drill the mounting holes before re-installing the axles it will be easier in my opinion.

 

[CutlassKage]

Thanks everyone. Will try the nail idea when I get to the passenger rear. Hopefully won’t have the issues of the drivers side. Be safe out there.

 

[bracketchev1221]

I would replace everything. Backing plates and wheel cylinders. I did mine and the new designs are much better than the factory. The backing plate is a keyhole design to retain the wheel cylinder from rotating and the wheel cylinder has tabs that will hit the axle tube and prevent rotation as well.