2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Help - Rear Brake Cylinders

[rblomquist]

Allright guys, I'm in the middle of trying to get some rear brake action on the truck. I spent big bucks redoing the fronts a few months ago and now it's time to look at the rears.



I don't think I'm getting any brake action out of the left rear at all and marginal out of the right rear. I'm in the process of trying the manual adjust procedure but not much luck so far in brake action.



With that said, I'm intrigued with the threads on the larger rear cylinders (3500s) from Napa. BUT, seems like a lot of posters are pre 98. 5 model guys on these threads and I'm also seeing some folks say 98. 5 and up should already have the 1-1/16 diameter cylinders.



Also, what application exactly on the 3500s should I look up on the Napa page i. e. 2wd, 4wd, etc? I really want to get these fixed before my high dollar front brake job gets toasted from doing all the work.







Thanks in advance.

 

[Glen Pratt]

You can order Wagner Part#WC79768 1-3/16" bore wheel cylinders. They are for a 1982 Chevy 3500 dually diesel. They are a direct fit for a Dodge and give you a slightly bigger cylinder bore. I ordered mine from CarParts.com . They were $18. 80 for the pair. You might want to PM TDR member Sam Peterson to make sure these will fit your year truck. He did the swap on his truck and owns a brake shop. My truck is a 1998. Hope this helps. -Glen

 

[Loren]

Call Sam Peterson at Rapid Brake (Washington state) and get his advice. Sam's at (360) 357-4958.



He supplied brake pads and rear cylinders for my 2000 truck.



Loren

 

[rblomquist]

Thanks, I PM'd him, if he doesn't reply after a few days I'll prolly give him a call.

 

[rblomquist]

Update: No PM from Sam so I called up there and ended up talking to Pat (I believe it was Pat) anyway, I guess Sam is not around for a while (as in months). Pat was cordial enough and I ended up ordering the pads and cylinders from him. We;ll see how it goes.



Part 2: I've never worked much on brake drums/shoes. If someone could give me the skinny on any special tools I may need to swap out the clyinders & shoes that'd be much appreciated.



Thanks in advance.

 

[Loren]

They make special tools for removing and installing the brake springs, but I don't own them. I've always been able to take drum brakes apart and put back together with normal shop tools.



I would guess that eye protection would be a good idea while working with the springs.



Loren

 

[CumminsPuller]

Loren,



I have never seen the special tools you are talking about. I have to do mine so often because of the mileage I drive it would be nice to atleast check these out? Have seen them online somewhere?



Jason

 

[HEMI®Dart]

The special tool looks like this:



#ad




I have one and never use it.

 

[CumminsPuller]

Is that because it doesn't work?

 

[RT66DOC]

Probably works but looks like you need two hands to operate it. Then you won't have a hand left to hold your beer. What would you do?

 

[CumminsPuller]

Originally posted by RT66DOC

Then you won't have a hand left to hold your beer. What would you do?

Good Point!!!!!!

 

[JohnG]

Wheel cyls

I bought 3500 rear cyls,(for my '95 2500), a while back, but haven't installed them yet. . Close to # that Glen Pratt posted, but one digit dif. . Wagner WC79767 They look to be 1 3/16"

JohnG

 

[rblomquist]

Thanks for the inputs. You guys see any need to turn the drums? I see hardly any signs of wear on my drums as I doubt they've been working 2% of the time they've been on the truck.

 

[SteveE]

Height sensing proportioning valve removal

You might look at this since your rear brake drums are hardly worn, could be a answer.

Hope this helps.

Steve



Category 5 - Brakes



05-04-98 All Height sensing proportioning valve removal.

This procedure should only be performed on 2500 series 4x4 vehicles that are continuously operated at 75% or greater GVW and have had their rear suspension altered. The bulletin describes a procedure the dealer should follow in the removal of a rear height sensing proportioning valve. Removal of the proportioning valve should help prolong front brake life.

 

[EBottema]

The best thing would be a rear disc conversion... anyone put newer dodge discs on a pre 01 truck??



Erik