Rear brake shoe lining check (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)

1 Due to the fact that the rear brake drums are combined with the hubs, which makes removal of the drums more complicated than is the case with detachable drums, inspection of the shoe linings can be carried out at the specified intervals by prising out the small inspection plug from the brake backplate and observing the linings through the hole using a mirror (see illustrations).

17.1a Brake shoe viewing hole location (arrowed) in backplate
17.1a Brake shoe viewing hole location (arrowed) in backplate

17.1b Checking rear brake lining wear with a mirror
17.1b Checking rear brake lining wear with a mirror

2 A minimum thickness of friction material must always be observed on the shoes. If it is worn down to this level, renew the shoes.

3 Do not attempt to re-line shoes yourself but always obtain factory re-lined shoes.

4 Renew the shoes in an axle set (four shoes), even if only one is worn to the minimum.

    See also:

    Folding roof (Cabriolet models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Remove the rear side, wheel arch and roof stowage compartment trim panels. 2 Disconnect the heated rear window wiring and pull it from the weatherstrip. 3 Release the roof front locking ...

    Cylinder head - removal and refitting (engine removed)
    Note: The cylinder head bolts must always be renewed after slackening, and a new cylinder head gasket and camshaft cover gasket must be used on refitting. If the engine has recently run, the cylin ...

    Fuel filter renewal (Every 24 000 miles (40 000 km) or 2 years)
    Caution: Refer to the precautions in Chapter 4, Part B, Section 1 before proceeding. 2.0 litre SOHC fuel injection models 1 The fuel filter is located on the left-hand side of the engine compart ...