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:

    Accelerator pedal - removal and refitting
    The procedure is the same as described in Part A of this Chapter for carburettor models. ...

    Handbrake lever - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Chock the front wheels, raise and support the vehicle at the rear using stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”) then release the handbrake. 2 Working underneath, extract the spring c ...

    Engine mountings - renewal
    1 The engine mountings incorporate hydraulic dampers and must be renewed if excessive engine movement is evident. 2 Working in the engine compartment, unscrew the central nuts securing the engine ...