1970 Drum brake question
 

Ok I feel like a tool asking this and I looked on the inter web and on here. I can't seem to get my rear drum brake covers off.

I read the manual and it says it should just pull off once the wheel is off. No such luck.

I read also it said I may have to back the shoes off but not sure how that is done.

I've done many VW Bus brake jobs and there was a little wheel you spin inside the hub but nothing like that on these it seems.

Any help would be appreciated.

1970 C10 regular L6 drum all around.

Thanks all.
Doug

Re: 1970 Drum brake question
 

It sounds like one of two things has happened.
1) The Drum has rust welded itself to the Hub on the axle shaft.
If this is the case you can take a hand sledge and strike the drum around the edge alternating between the top and face as you go around the perimeter of the drum, be careful not to hit the wheel studs.
2) If the drums are seized and don't turn then there are broken parts inside and the brake shoes are being forced against the drum causing it to seize.
You can get a drum puller and force it off, you can borrow one from O'reillys.

Re: 1970 Drum brake question
 

+1

I'll also throw one more thing out. Make sure there aren't any of those retainer clip thingy's hiding on the studs.

Re: 1970 Drum brake question
 

Put the lug nuts back on a few turns before you start whacking with the sledge hammer. This will protect the threads in case you miss and hit a lug.

I've removed many brake drums with the hammer method. Only I use a regular, long handled sledge. You get a bit more bat speed that way.

Re: 1970 Drum brake question
 

Awesome guys, thank you these were the answers I was looking for. Didn't mention it but the drums are moving freely forward and aft. Was driving a little while ago no redoing rear end and wanted to check the brakes since the rear end is torn apart.

Thanks again all.

Doug