2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission removal of rear brake springs

[JRS]

Going to install some more aggressive Carbon-Kevlar shoes on the rear of my '97 3/4 ton. The brake springs look pretty stout, what have you all used to remove them? Snap-On sells several different tools, but I would like to get the correct one the first time.

 

[Todd G]

Vice grips or use a piece of heavy wire and loop it over the spring hook.

 

[kentdiesel]

A set of brake spring pliers works good .



The handles are what you use. The handle with the socket on the end goes over the brake spring anchor then you rotate the pliers and it lifts the spring away from the anchor.



The other handle is for installing the springs. Put the hook of the spring on the handle, the end of the handle on the spring anchor, lift the handle and the spring slides down the handle onto the anchor.



You can buy a tool with an anchor socket on one end and a anchor catch on the other but I like the pliers because their usually longer and you can use the handles for more leverage on strong springs.



I usually say buy Snap on but when it comes to brake spring pliers cheap ones will do.



You will also need a brake spring retainer tool for the small springs that are mid way on the shoe and look like they are held by nails.



Kent

 

[y-knot]

Yes you can get the brake tools anywhere. Sears is a good spot. You have a '97 and the carbon/Kevlar shoes will make a big difference. I would recommend trashing the old spring , they have served you well, but there time is up. Go and get yourself a brake hardware kit for the rears, they are not much, and well worth the effort.

 

[SmokinU]

Taking them out was the easy part, installing was a bit of a challenge. I used a good pair of pliers to take them out and put them back in. It took the strength of my dad and I to pull them enough to reinstall them. Pretty strong springs. Just be careful that they don’t snap back on ya, cause that will probably hurt. Here is a pic of what mine looked like when I took the drums off. This may help when it comes time to reinstall them.



Brandon



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[DJW]

Of removing brake springs, best to find and use proper tools, or could rent them. I have heard of where one person lost the sight of an eye by trying to use makeshift means of removing the springs. Also of tools, I have found, the best investment if one wishes to service their own equipment. Even if only used once, gets the job done safely and efficiently, plus less chance of damaging anything. Making do, can end up being Very Expensive, Time Consuming and Frustrating. Scrum Down