GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 38400 Brake Shoe Spanner and Spring Remover

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the rear tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

  3. Object Number: 1179727  Size: SH
  4. Remove the brake drum. Refer to Brake Drum Replacement .
  5. Notice: Do not over stretch the adjuster spring. Damage can occur if the spring is over stretched.


    Object Number: 1195810  Size: SH
  6. Disengage the adjuster actuator spring hook end from the tab on the adjuster actuator lever and remove the adjuster actuator spring.

  7. Object Number: 1195804  Size: SH
  8. Remove the adjuster actuator lever.

  9. Object Number: 890724  Size: SH
  10. Use the J 38400  (1) in order to spread the brake shoes apart.

  11. Object Number: 1195807  Size: SH
  12. Remove the adjuster screw assembly and inspect for the following:
  13. • Seized or binding threaded adjuster assembly.
    • Damaged or missing adjuster screw teeth.
  14. Replace the adjuster screw assembly if any of the above conditions are present.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 890724  Size: SH
  1. Use the J 38400  (1) in order to spread the brake shoes apart.

  2. Object Number: 1195807  Size: SH
  3. Install the adjuster screw assembly to the brake shoes.

  4. Object Number: 1195804  Size: SH
  5. Install the adjuster actuator lever to the brake shoe and adjuster screw assembly. Ensure that the lever is engaged between the adjuster assembly and the brake shoe.

  6. Object Number: 1195810  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not over stretch the adjuster spring. Damage can occur if the spring is over stretched.

  7. Install the adjuster actuator spring. Ensure that the loop end of the spring engages the actuator lever.

  8. Object Number: 1179727  Size: SH
  9. Adjust the rear drum brakes. Refer to Drum Brake Adjustment .
  10. Install the rear tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  11. Lower the vehicle.