2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission question re changing out wheel cylinders on 2001

[dodger22]

I was already to tackle changing out the rear wheel cylinders on a 2001 2WD when I was stumped by the parking brake actuating lever. This is the flat, curved piece of metal that pivots on the top post to which the parking brake cable is attached at the bottom and sits smack in front of the wheel cylinder.



It appears to be held on by a flat washer which can be turned but will not come off. I checked the manual but it is not covered. How does this lever come off?



Also I noticed the brake line entering the rear of the backing plate is secured with a small screw-in fitting. I have the right line wrench to undo it but it looks kind of wimpy and won't take much leverage before collapsing. Is there a secret to getting these off without making another job?



TIA,



Richard

 

[csutton7]

the cylinder will come out once you have the brake line removed and bolts removed--it slides out--I just wrenched the fitting and it came out---maybe use some liquid wrench --chris

 

[DLausche]

Originally posted by dodger22

... Is there a secret to getting these off without making another job?



TIA,



Richard

I've always used a brake line wrench (6 pt) and heat the base of the fitting before trying to loosen. Heat with a hand held torch on low and try to heat mostly the casting of the brake cylinder. Heat the brake line as little as possible. It should not take much to get it to break loose. I just did my 99's rear cyls and it only took 30 secs or so of heat on each cylinder and they were easy to break free.



-Deon

 

[dodger22]

Thanks guys for your response. It had occurred to me to heat the fitting first and that's what I will do. I am still curious though as to how that parking brake actuator is held on to the pivot post. Any comment?



Thanks, Richard

 

[DCTECH]

Above the wheel cylinder on backing plate is a 7/16" nut that holds the parking brake pivot. Remove nut and use a brass drift to drive out or pry on washer between backing plate, bolt is spined to hold to backing plate.

 

[rrausch]

I just changed out the wheel cylinders on my '95 on Monday. I didn't even remove the brake shoes, I just disconnected the 2 springs which retract them, and then pried the shoes apart at the top just a little bit so I could get the cylinder out.



And yes, a special little wrench makes getting the brake line loose real easy. I bought a set of them years ago, from about 3/8 on up to about 9/16. They do come in handy for any nut which has a line going through it.