10 replies to this topic

[megamini_jb]

Hi,

Handbrake on mini hasn't been the best, but it worked - just. Recently it's got to the point were I have no handbrake at all. Inspected the rear brakes and looks like the cylinders have been leaking for a while. Looks a mess basically.

Now what will be the best way to clean the backplates and drums ready to fit nice new rebuild kit?

Also just FYI. The brakes have been adjusted correctly and handbrake has 3 clicks in it. Obviously doesn't hold though

Cheers

Edited by megamini_jb, 17 December 2013 - 12:29 AM.

[HarrysMini]

Can of brake cleaner and a rag is what I would use. Remember to re-lubricate the required parts.

[Cooperman]

Remove the wheel cylinders one side at a time after clamping off the flexibles.

Remove the linings.

Blow out with compressed air and thoroughly wash the backplates with Brake & Clutch Cleaner.

Free off the adjusters and use copper grease on the adjuster threads.

Check the handbrake linkage for play in the pivot pin.

Re-assemble with new wheel cylinders, new brake shoes and re-fit drums. Adjust shoes.

Adjust and grease handbrake cable if necessary

Bleed brakes.

[megamini_jb]

I'll order the rebuilt kit now, then go get some brake cleaner tomorrow and get on and get it all clean ready for the rebuilt kit

How long do you reckon it'll take to do both sides?

Edited by megamini_jb, 17 December 2013 - 12:44 AM.

[megamini_jb]

Thank you both

[Cooperman]

If you've not done the job before, allow about 1.5 hours per side.

It can be a bit difficult to re-fit the spring attachment clips for the new wheel cylinders, but once you've done it once it's easier.

[megamini_jb]

Ok thank you Coopeman. Nope haven't done it before and haven't got any help either.

[Cooperman]

I suggest you get a fluid spray bottle to put the Brake & Clutch Cleaner in. If you've not got comp. air don't worry, just get everything nice & clean.

Clamp the flexible with mole grips using curved pieces of wood to prevent splitting the hoses.

Use the correct size spanner to undo the brake line into the wheel cylinder, it should be 7/16" AF. Just hope it's not seized in.

Make sure the new brake shoes go in the correct way round by looking in a workshop manual. If they go in wrongly the brakes will not work too well.

You might need some help with brake bleeding to pump the pedal.

[megamini_jb]

Great, thanks!

Would this kit be alright? http://www.ebay.co.u...=item4ac071b6d7

Or shall I just buy these so I know everything is nice and new? http://www.ebay.co.u...=item2573fa486d
Or is that just spending money that I don't really need to spend?

Edited by megamini_jb, 17 December 2013 - 01:08 AM.

[megamini_jb]

Would be a lot easier too

[Cooperman]

You shouldn't need new back plates, so the first kit should be ideal

When that happens, which does happen (i.e. wheel cylinder leaks) I usually just buy a set of shoes and a pair of cylinders. The rest doesn't normally need changing.

The adjusters are fine and even if they are a bit stiff, just screw them right out when the cylinders and shoes are off, clean them up and re-fit them with copper grease. I've even removed seized up ones by heating up the adjuster with a blow torch to free them off.

From Mini Spares a pair of cylinders and a set of brake shoes should cost around £27 and that, plus a can of brake fluid is al it needs to cost really.