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:

    General information and precautions
    General information The system is best described by dividing it into four separate sub-systems: air, fuel, engine management (EEC IV system), and ignition. Air system The air system consists of ...

    Engine - complete dismantling
    1 The need for dismantling will have been dictated by wear or noise in most cases. Although there is no reason why only partial dismantling cannot be carried out to renew such items as the oil pum ...

    Fluid reservoir (ABS) - removal and refitting
    Note: New seals must be used between the reservoir and the hydraulic unit on reassembly. Caution: Refer to the precautions in Section 1. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Depress ...