Changing the brake shoes on a Chevy Express Van can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little guidance, you can easily do it yourself. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process, step-by-step, so you can get back on the road with confidence. We’ll show you what tools you’ll need, how to correctly remove and install new brake shoes, and how to properly adjust your brakes for safety and efficiency. So, let’s get started and learn how to replace brake shoes pads on your Chevy Express Van.
1. Lift the wheels and secure the car with jack stands. Remove the wheels.
2. Pull out the brake drum, it should come off easily.
3. Remove the brake shoe return spring from the bottom of the shoe.
4. Unscrew the hold-down springs from the top of the brake shoes.
5. Take out the brake shoes and the wheel cylinder.
6. Replace the wheel cylinder, brake shoes, and the hold-down springs.
7. Put the brake drum back in place and reattach the brake shoe return spring.
8. Put the wheels back on, lower the car and test the brakes.
Replacing Brake Shoes Pads on Chev Express Van
Replacing the brake shoes pads on a Chev Express Van is a relatively simple task. The process involves removing the old pads and installing new ones. With a few basic tools and a few minutes of free time, you can complete this job yourself. Here’s what you need to know about replacing brake shoes pads on a Chev Express Van.
Tools Needed
To properly replace brake shoes pads on a Chev Express Van, you will need the following tools:
- Jack
- Jack stand
- Wheel chock
- Metric socket set
- Pliers
- Brake cleaner
- New brake shoes pads
Procedure
- Step 1: Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place a wheel chock behind one of the rear tires to keep the vehicle from rolling.
- Step 2: Lift the vehicle with a jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel and tire from the vehicle.
- Step 3: Remove the brake caliper from the rotor using an appropriate sized metric socket. Be careful not to damage the brake lines.
- Step 4: Pull the caliper off the rotor and set it aside. Use the pliers to remove the old brake shoes. Clean the rotor with brake cleaner and a rag.
- Step 5: Install the new brake shoes onto the rotor, making sure they are seated properly. Re-install the brake caliper and secure it with the metric socket.
- Step 6: Reinstall the wheel and tire and lower the vehicle from the jack stands. Test the brakes to make sure they are working properly.
Few Frequently Asked Questions
What Tools are Needed to Replace Brake Shoes Pads on a Chev Express Van?
Tools needed include a socket wrench, flat head screwdriver, a can of brake cleaner, a pair of pliers, a hammer, and a new set of brake shoes pads. Additionally, you may want to have a set of wrenches of varying sizes and a set of torque wrenches to ensure that you get the job done correctly.
How do I Remove the Old Brake Shoes Pads?
Start by disconnecting the brake cable from the brake shoes. Then, loosen the adjuster bolt on the back of the brake shoe. Use the flat head screwdriver to remove the hold-down spring. Pull the drum off the spindle and slide the brake shoes off the spindle. Be sure to remove any debris from the drum.
How do I Install the New Brake Shoes Pads?
Begin by cleaning the backing plate and drum with the brake cleaner. Then, slide the new brake shoes onto the spindle. Reinstall the hold-down spring and adjuster bolt. Finally, reconnect the brake cable.
How do I Adjust the Brakes?
The brakes should be adjusted using a star wheel adjuster on the back of the brake shoes. Start by loosening the star wheel adjuster and then turning it in the appropriate direction until it is tight. Tighten the adjuster bolt and then check the brakes for proper adjustment.
What Should I do if the Brakes are Binding?
If the brakes are binding, you may need to adjust the star wheel adjuster. Turn the adjuster until it is tight, then loosen it slightly until the brakes are free. You may also need to replace the brake shoes pads if they are worn or damaged.
What Safety Precautions Should I Take?
Before performing any work on your brakes, it is important to make sure that the vehicle is securely supported. Always use safety glasses and gloves when working on brakes, and do not attempt to adjust or replace the brakes if you are not experienced or qualified to do so. It is also important to make sure that you dispose of all used brake parts in an appropriate manner.
Replacing your brake shoes pads on a Chevrolet Express Van is a relatively simple and straightforward process. Once you have gathered all the necessary tools and materials, it is just a matter of following the manufacturer’s instructions and taking care to ensure everything is installed correctly. The most important thing to remember is to always be sure to use genuine GM brake shoes and pads, as these are specifically designed to fit your vehicle and will ensure a safe and reliable braking system. With a little bit of patience and the right tools and parts, you can have your brake shoes and pads replaced in no time.
