GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 38400 Brake Shoe Spanner and Spring Remover


    Object Number: 585331  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Caution: Brake fluid may irritate eyes and skin. In case of contact, take the following actions:

       • Eye contact--rinse thoroughly with water.
       • Skin contact--wash with soap and water.
       • If ingested--consult a physician immediately.

    Notice: Brake fluid will damage electrical connections and painted surfaces. Use shop cloths, suitable containers, and fender covers to prevent brake fluid from contacting these areas. Always re-seal and wipe off brake fluid containers to prevent spills.

  4. Remove the rear brake pipe (2) from the wheel cylinder (1).

  5. Object Number: 142293  Size: SH
  6. If not replacing the brake shoes, spread the brake shoes using the J 38400 . To assist in holding the shoes apart use a nylon tie to hold the handles of J 38400 together.
  7. Remove the brake shoes if necessary. Refer to Brake Shoe Replacement .

  8. Object Number: 142296  Size: SH
  9. Remove the wheel cylinder bolts (2 from the wheel cylinder (2).
  10. Remove the wheel cylinder (3) from the backing plate (5).

Installation Procedure


  1. Object Number: 142296  Size: SH
  2. Install the wheel cylinder (3) to the backing plate.
  3. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  4. Install the wheel cylinder bolts (2 to the wheel cylinder (23.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the wheel cylinder bolts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).


    Object Number: 585331  Size: SH
  6. Install the rear brake pipe (2) to the wheel cylinder (1).
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the brake pipe nut to 23 N·m(17 lb ft).

  8. Install the rear brake shoes, if removed. Refer to Brake shoe Replacement.
  9. Remove the J 38400 from the brake shoes.
  10. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Bleed the hydraulic brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding in Hydraulic Brakes.